Keeping New Zealand’s spectrum safe, fair and ready for the future.
Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) has been looking at new ways to identify sellers who continue to appear on online marketplaces with prohibited devices, even after their listings have been removed. By working closely with digital platforms and using smarter tools, we aim to stop these repeat listings and better protect consumers.
At the same time, we are preparing educational campaigns to help online shoppers avoid buying non-compliant radio products, which are often sold on overseas websites. We want consumers to feel confident by checking our website or getting in touch with us for guidance. It is also positive to see mobile network operators supporting this work by planning to share helpful information with their customers especially about mobile boosters, which can cause serious network issues. Over time, we expect to widen this focus to include other prohibited devices sold online.
Our outreach to e-commerce platforms is already delivering good results. Fruugo has improved its search systems to spot prohibited radio products and has asked us for more examples to help strengthen their checks. Meanwhile, Shein has removed over 100 prohibited listings and put measures in place to block future sales of these devices to New Zealand buyers. It is encouraging to see these platforms working to meet our regulations.
Lastly, we are getting ready to roll out the new fee structure. This work includes setting up clear processes and updating the Register of Radio Frequencies to help ensure a smooth transition for everyone involved.
Interference Case
RSM’s 24/7 service helps keep safety of life radio channels clear
A recent incident in Auckland highlighted just how important it is to keep New Zealand’s radio spectrum clear, especially for safety of life services.
The issue came to light when interference was reported on Maritime Channel MM16, a channel used for safety, distress and calling. Maritime Operations were reporting steady white noise on their Auckland and Great Barrier site, raising concerns that any genuine distress calls in the area might not get through.
RSM were notified and the local RSM investigator was dispatched to look into the matter, supported remotely by our on call duty officer based in Dunedin. They worked together to trace the source, reaching out to various contacts to understand where the interference was being received and gradually narrowing down the search area.
Direction finding efforts suggested the problem was coming from around the Auckland Harbour. Assistance from the team at the Auckland Marine Rescue Centre provided valuable directions from a vessel at dock, helping refine the location even further. As the investigator moved through the CBD and around the harbour, signal measurements grew stronger, eventually pointing clearly to the Jellicoe Harbour area.
There, the source of the interference was found, a maritime VHF radio on MM16 that had accidentally been left permanently keyed. This meant it was continuously transmitting, effectively blocking the channel for anyone else trying to communicate. With the owner’s cooperation, the equipment was turned off and checks confirmed that normal service on MM16 was restored.
While this case was resolved without incident, it serves as an important reminder of how easily critical channels can be affected, and why looking after our shared spectrum matters so much. It also reflects the value of cooperation across different organisations and individuals, all working quietly in the background to help keep vital communication services running as they should.
Update supplied by RSM.
