In a major move to modernise its rules, New Zealand has introduced the New Zealand radio standards via the Radio Spectrum Management (RSM). This announcement reflects a strong step toward aligning with international best practices and addresses emerging technologies in the radio‑transmitter space.
What’s Changing Under the New Zealand Radio Standards
Moreover, the Radiocommunications Regulations (Radio Standards) Notice 2025, which came into effect on 1 September 2025, replaces the 2023 version of the notice and sets out mandatory technical standards and compliance requirements for most radio transmitters supplied in New Zealand.
Key revisions include:
-
Updated standards covering Short Range Devices (9 kHz – 40 GHz).
-
New rules for automotive radar and telematics systems, Wi‑Fi and broadband wireless access equipment.
-
Expansion of the compliance framework to include previously unregulated products.
Additionally, products that were compliant under the 2023 Notice at the time the new regulation took effect are deemed compliant under the 2025 Notice.
Furthermore, the revision also reflects alignment with the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) and international standards such as those of European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) and the joint AS/NZS standards.
The update to the New Zealand radio standards is important for local industry. By aligning with Australian and international frameworks, RSM aims to streamline assessment procedures and reduce regulatory uncertainty for suppliers. Moreover, the more comprehensive compliance scope means that manufacturers and importers need to assess whether their radio‑transmitting products now fall under the new Notice.
However, the fact that legacy compliant products are grandfathered gives some breathing room for industry stakeholders.
How to Navigate the New Standards
With the 2025 Notice now in effect, suppliers and manufacturers must act swiftly to adapt. Begin by auditing your radio-transmitting devices to determine whether new or updated standards apply. Additionally, take this opportunity to evaluate whether emerging technologies in your portfolio align with the updated compliance framework.
To streamline this process and avoid regulatory pitfalls:
-
Use our Regulatory Intelligence Service for tailored insights on how the New Zealand and Australian frameworks align.
-
Rely on our Global Regulatory Updates Service to stay informed about future changes that could impact your market strategy.
Staying ahead of these updates helps you maintain uninterrupted market access and product integrity in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape.
The introduction of the 2025 Notice marks a meaningful step for New Zealand’s regulatory landscape in radio‑equipment compliance. With the focus keyphrase repeated and described, stakeholders should take proactive steps to ensure readiness.
Stay ahead of further Regulatory Updates and ensure your operations remain compliant.
Impact Assessment
Technical Standards? ✅ Yes
Type Approval & Market Access? ❌ No
Imports, Customs, Trade, or Market Surveillance? ❌ No
Spectrum Management? ❌ No
