Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) has announced an updated Radio Standards Notice, effective 1 September 2025, introducing significant revisions to New Zealand’s radio compliance framework.
This update represents an important step in modernising New Zealand’s regulatory framework for radio products, aligning national standards with current technologies and international best practices.
Key Highlights of the Update
The Radiocommunications Regulations (Radio Standards) Notice 2025 (Notice 2025-go4751) replaces the 2023 version and introduces several significant enhancements to New Zealand’s radio equipment compliance regime.
1. Updated and Expanded Standards
Replaces outdated standard references with the latest international standards, including AS/NZS, EN, and IEC equivalents.
Introduces new standards to cover emerging wireless technologies and modern communication applications.
Provides a clearer mapping of product categories to applicable standards, improving regulatory transparency.
2. Broader Product Coverage
Expands the definition of regulated equipment to include previously unmandated radio devices.
Applies to products classified as interfering equipment or radio transmitters that may cause or be affected by interference.
Ensures consistent compliance expectations across consumer, industrial, and commercial radio products.
3. Defined Conformity Levels
Introduces structured conformity categories (e.g., A1, A2) to standardise testing and documentation requirements based on product risk and usage.
Clarifies labeling and declaration obligations for suppliers and importers.
4. Recognised Exemptions
Exemptions are provided for specific equipment types, including:
Short-range transmitters pre-installed in vehicles at manufacture, and
Military radio equipment operated by the New Zealand Defence Force or cooperating foreign forces.
5. Continuity for Existing Equipment
The update does not constitute a complete overhaul—existing product certifications under the 2023 framework remain valid.
Grandfathering provisions ensure a smooth transition for manufacturers and suppliers with already-approved devices.
What This Means for the Industry
These changes aim to:
Simplify compliance for manufacturers and suppliers,
Improve spectrum efficiency and coexistence, and
Encourage technological innovation while maintaining protection against harmful interference.
For full details and supporting materials, refer to the Radiocommunications Regulations (Radio Standards) Notice 2025 published in the New Zealand Gazette linked below. Suppliers, importers, and installers are encouraged to review the new standards to ensure all equipment continues to meet RSM’s regulatory requirements under the updated framework.
C-PRAV provides product testing, certification, and regulatory consulting services to help manufacturers and importers meet RSM and ACMA radio compliance requirements across Australia and New Zealand.
