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Auction 29
Auction 29, for 2 sound broadcasting spectrum licences, was conducted as an online auction via Turners website between 9 and 16 July 2025.
Sound broadcasting auction catalogue for Auction 29 [PDF, 455 KB]
The winning bids are listed below:
| Transmit Location | Frequency (MHz) | Reserve Price (Incl. GST) | Sale Price (Incl. GST) | Winning Bidder | Licence No |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hedgehope (Southland District) | 105.2 | $36,581 | $45,300 | NZME radio Limited | 414743(external link) |
| Kaikohe (Northland District) | 90.8 | $4,219 | $4,280 | Mediaworks Radio Limited | 414744(external link) |
The auction was managed by Turners on behalf of Radio Spectrum Management.
Terms and conditions for the winning bidder
Winning bidders must:
- set up a broadcasting service within 2 years of getting the licence (the service needs to be on air within 21 months, or the licensee could lose the frequency)
- pay an annual fee of $150 per year to keep the licence current (each licence is valid until 2 April 2031).
Sound Broadcasting Auction sample contract agreement [DOCX, 60 KB]
Having a licence doesn’t automatically give the right to broadcast from a certain site. Licensees need to talk to the site owner or landlord to get approval to broadcast from the preferred location.
Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) provide no guarantees regarding access to land, infrastructure, or services in relation to any licence. These are matters for which licensees are directly responsible.
General information for broadcasters and bidders
Licensees may be able to modify the licence parameters from those currently licensed. The licensee needs to get an Approved Radio Engineer (ARE) to do this and pay engineering fees agreed with the ARE. We won’t accept modifications if they substantially decrease service to the public.
Find an Approved Radio Engineer (ARE)
Licensees may also need to pay:
- a one-off resource charge when the licence is modified for an increase in population coverage
- levies to the Broadcasting Standards Authority (BSA) under the Broadcasting Act 1989
- performing rights and artist copy right or royalty fees to OneMusic NZ.