New Zealand spectrum management update

Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) New Zealand has released its April 2014 update, with information on VHF usage and a comprehensive review of all spectrum allocations.

First up, RSM has begun consulting on a proposal to create a General User Licence for short-range devices at 49 MHz. This is within VHF Band I, which was formerly used for television broadcasting. The consultation is open until 29 April 2014.

RSM has also completed a review of New Zealand’s radio spectrum allocations and has published a new issue of ‘Table of Radio Spectrum Usage in New Zealand (PIB 21) - Issue 7.01’.

The new issue incorporates amendments to the Radio Regulations adopted by the Final Acts of 2012 World Radiocommunications Conference (WRC-12). The Radio Regulations, commonly known as the International Radio Regulations (IRR) in New Zealand, is a multilateral treaty as incorporated in New Zealand’s domestic legislation by reference in Schedule 1 of the Radiocommunications Act 1989.

Also incorporated are other domestic changes to radio spectrum usage, including but not limited to amendments within various revised General User Licences and the completion of the digital switchover for terrestrial television broadcasting.

RSM has recently completed a revision of ‘Fixed Service Bands in New Zealand’ (PIB 22), with Issue 8 published. The new issue details the band and channel plans for fixed services in New Zealand and contains minor editorial amendments.

Finally, RSM is asking stakeholders to take part in a survey on its service provision. The short survey is confidential and will give RSM valuable feedback