Radio Spectrum Business Update — May 2025

Updates on:
Direct to Device in New Zealand
AM/FM 2031 Expiry and Potential Reassignment

A satellite in space beaming signals directly to a smartphone..

Direct to Device in New Zealand

We have updated our website to outline New Zealand’s approach to Direct to Device under the Radiocommunications regime.

In New Zealand, Direct to Device is currently authorised for use in mobile bands held within Management Rights, as well as in mobile bands for existing Mobile Satellite Service frequency bands. This enables mobile phones to connect directly to satellites without relying on traditional ground-based cellular infrastructure.

We will continue to monitor the development of Direct to Device both locally and internationally.

For a full update on Direct to Device in New Zealand, see our licensing page.

Direct to Device licensing

AM/FM 2031 Expiry and Potential Reassignment

We are seeking your feedback on the potential reassignment of spectrum licences for AM and FM radio broadcasting.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) is responsible for managing radio spectrum in New Zealand, including allocating rights for the use of the spectrum.

There are currently around 1,053 licences held within the AM (amplitude modulation) and FM (frequency modulation) spectrum bands. These licences sit within 2 Crown Management Rights as below:

  • AM (0.521-1.612 MHz) under Crown Management Right 206
  • FM (88.4-106.63 MHz) under Crown Management Right 207.

These 2 management rights, along with the licences registered under them, expire on 2 April 2031.

We understand there is demand for spectrum access after the 2031 expiry, so this paper proposes options for the potential reassignment of these licences. We want your feedback on the proposed policy objectives, inlcuding:  

  • the reallocation process and timeline for commercial broadcasting
  • pricing methodology and related assumptions for commercial licences
  • the duration of AM/FM licences beyond 2031
  • the allocation and reservation of the amount of spectrum available for non-commercial (community and iwi/Māori) AM/FM radio broadcasting beyond the 2031 expiry.

View the consultation.

AM/FM 2031 expiry and potential reassignment

If you would like information on your company's estimated population coverage across the total number of licences you hold, please email us at radio.spectrum@mbie.govt.nz. We aim to respond within 5 working days.