Some dog-tracking devices are illegal in New Zealand because they operate on the same radio frequencies as equipment frequently used by the likes of forestry, transport, rail, and emergency services. The use of illegal tracking devices may cause serious interference to these services.

Since 2009, specified dog-tracking devices have been prescribed as prohibited equipment, providing that as well as not being authorised for use in New Zealand, the devices are not allowed to be manufactured, imported, sold or distributed. To ensure awareness that this prohibition includes all the component parts of the devices, the Prohibited Equipment – Dog Tracking Devices Notice has been amended.

Before you buy equipment of this sort, be sure to check whether the device may be imported and is acceptable for use in New Zealand. Importing, selling and using illegal devices may result in a fine or prosecution. If you are uncertain, please contact us for information.

You can talk to us about dog tracking collars and other prohibited equipment on free phone 0508 RSM INFO (0508 776 463) or email us on info@rsm.govt.nz. Other ways to contact us is available on the RSM website.

View the Radiocommunications Regulations (Prohibited Equipment – Dog Tracking Devices) Notice 2013.

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TV in the Lower North Island, Taranaki and the East Cape is going digital on 29 September 2013, and the rest of the North Island on 1 December 2013. You need Freeview, Sky, Igloo or Vodafone cable before then to keep watching TV.

Find out more at www.goingdigital.co.nz

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The Ministry has recently updated the GURL for Radio Amateur Operators, which specifies the terms, conditions and restrictions that amateur radio operators must comply with when operating their radio stations to reflect changes to visiting amateur callsign requirements.

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The Radio operator Certificate and Callsign Rules Public Information Brochure (PIB 46) specifies the rules that Approved Radio Examiners (ARXs) must follow for the issuing of radio operator certificates and callsigns. The Ministry has recently revised PIB 46 to reflect changes to the rules for Amateur Temporary callsigns, Amateur reciprocal agreements with other countries and the review date for the current arrangements for maritime VHF-only callsign issue. PIB 46 - Issue 16 is now available on our website.

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