This is the top of the main content
Current and upcoming spectrum auctions
Information about current and upcoming spectrum auctions can be found on this page.
On this page
When someone applies for a new commercial sound broadcasting licence, we call for expressions of interest (EOI) as these types of licence are contestable. We have now released details for the sale of two FM commercial sound broadcasting licences at: Two Peaks (Central Hawkes Bay District) and Otahoua (Masterton District).
The licences for sale are:
| Licence Transmit Location | Frequency (MHz) | Spectrum Licence Number | Reserve Price (NZD Incl. GST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Two Peaks (Central Hawkes Bay District) |
96.4 | 402243(external link) | $3,920 |
| Otahoua (Masterton District) |
103.9 | 402516(external link) | $16,379 |
A public auction for these licences will start on Wednesday 4 October 2023 on the Trade Me website, for a duration of seven days. Skylarc will manage the auction.
The licences are in the Crown’s name. We will transfer the licence(s) to the winning bidder(s) once you've paid Skylarc and signed the Crown's Agreement. Signing the agreement enforces the implementation rules for you to get your licence. This means you must:
- Pay the winning bid price for each auction lot.
- Set up your broadcasting service within 2 years of getting your licence. You need to be on air within 21 months or you could lose your frequency.
- Pay an annual fee to keep your licence current. The licence is valid until 2 April 2031.
You may be able to change the licence parameters from those currently licensed. You need to get an approved radio engineer to do this to certify a planned licence modification. We won’t accept modifications if they substantially decrease service to the public.
View the Sound Broadcasting Auction Catalogue for Auction 27 [PDF, 383 KB]
View the Sound Broadcasting Auction 27 sample contract agreement [DOCX, 187 KB]