Edit* sorry for dredging up an old thread, found it while searching and missed the date!
This is from the NZAIP (emphasis added)
"When climbing or descending in Classes A, C, and D airspace unless ATC has specified a climb/descent rate and/or time or place of commencement, pilots must initiate climb or descent promptly on acknowledgement of the clearance, or advise ATC so that separation from other traffic will not be compromised. The change of level should be made at an optimum rate consistent with the normal operating performance and configuration characteristics of the aircraft to 1000ft above/below the assigned level, then reduced as appropriate until the assigned level is reached. At other times in climb or descent, pilots must advise ATC if they wish to level off at an interim level or substantially change the rate of climb or descent."
I don't know if other countries have a similar rule (sounds like they don't) but in New Zealand at least 100fpm descent without advising the controller could lead to paperwork/a loss of separation.
Last edited by macbe327; 2nd Aug 2015 at 14:22.
Reason: Old thread