Who is Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) and why should I care?
About RSM (Radio Spectrum Management)
RSM — or Radio Spectrum Management — is the New Zealand government agency responsible for regulating all radio transmitters and receivers. In short, any device that sends or receives a radio signal falls under RSM’s authority and must meet their compliance standards.
Think of RSM as the “Radio Police”—they make sure all radio equipment in New Zealand operates safely, efficiently, and without interference to others.
Does Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) have the power to fine me or confiscate my equipment?
The short answer is YES!
While RSM will usually do their best to work with you, they are responsible for upholding New Zealand’s radio regulations and will not hesitate to issue fines or confiscate equipment if necessary.
If your unlicensed equipment causes interference with licensed radio systems, RSM will take action.
An important point to note is that you don’t need to be caught using illegal radio equipment to be prosecuted — simply owning it and having the ability to use it can be enough for a conviction.
I bought my Radios from overseas and was told I did not need a license, is this true?
Firstly, every radio transmitter operates under the confines of some type of license. Most refer to the PRS (Public Radio Service) channels as the “license-free” band, but be aware that PRS radios must operate within the confines of the PRS NZ license. Most of the radios sold on the likes of “Ali Express” are aimed at “Amateur Radio” license holders. If you do not have an Amateur license and have this equipment, it can be deemed as owning radio equipment you are unlicensed to use (even without operating it) and are subject to RSM fines. This applies to almost all “Baofeng” type radios.
Can I not just get cheap overseas radios re-programed to NZ channels?
Sometimes (but not in most cases), it depends on the radios. To use radios in NZ, not only do they have to be on the correct channels, but they must also pass strict type approval for use. All radios are subject to a formal type approval testing regime. These tests are to measure how “clean” the transmissions are and the suitability for use in NZ. These tests determine the specific classes for which the radio can be used. For example, a radio used for commercial channels is tested far more rigorously than one used for PRS (Public Radio Service).
I bought my radios from TradeMe or another NZ website — surely that makes them legal?
Not necessarily. Just because a radio is sold on a New Zealand website doesn’t guarantee it meets local compliance or licensing requirements. Many online sellers import products that aren’t approved for use in New Zealand. It’s always best to check that your radio is RSM-approved and operates within the correct NZ frequency bands before using it. If your unable to ask or check that seller is a registered RSM radio dealer, you as the owner or operator of that equipment is largely liable. It is up to you to check to ensure they are legal.
What is a Commercial Channel License and does it mean I have sole access to that Channel?
What Is a Commercial Channel?
A commercial channel is a radio frequency that has been specifically engineered for your use, according to the purpose, power level, and location outlined in your commercial licence.
RSM has dedicated radio-frequency (RF) engineers who assess applications to ensure your channel won’t interfere with existing users. While a commercial licence does not guarantee exclusive use of a frequency, the engineers will do their best to minimise the chance of interference.
Commercial radios must also be type-approved to a higher technical standard. This means that even if a radio is approved for PRS use, it may not be approved for use on commercial channels.
Your licence also defines the coverage area (for example, North Island, South Island, or nationwide). Generally, the larger the coverage area, the higher the initial engineering costs.
Typical Costs:
Engineering setup: $500 – $1,500 (one-off RF Engineering Fee)
Annual RSM licensing fee: $180 – $200 (for up to 40 channels)
If you are interested, Information Found Here