Legacy New Zealand Low Power FM (LPFM) Radio Station Guide
Since the 1990’s, New Zealanders have been able to create their own low power FM radio stations and begin freely broadcasting on a narrow range of frequencies. Commonly called the ‘guardband’, these frequencies are at the top and bottom ends of the standard FM dial. The power is very low and coverage is usually 5-10km from the transmitter location.
The stations are completely unregulated, as they’re automatically entitled to a GURL [General Users Radio Licence] so long as they meet technical regulations.
Hundreds of such stations have been created, and many have come and gone. Some are still around after a decade. Various attempts to list currently on-air stations have been attempted, but this radio guide is the most extensive because it includes every known LPFM station to have broadcast in over ten years.
From August 2013 this guide is replaced by the New Zealand Radio Guide and is no longer maintained.
This guide has become part of a legacy guide to no-longer broadcasting New Zealand AM/FM/LPFM radio stations.
Check the boxes to include your options, then click the “Show Results” button. Each selection produces a separate table of results.
LPFM radio reflects a unique part of NZ’s radio heritage. Much like the early days of radio, anyone could go on air. The enthusiasm of a new generation to start their own stations, broadcast their own music and views, and find a space on the airwaves has been startling and successful.
Our exclusive LPFM Radio Guide helps tell these stories.
The Radio Guide is searchable by frequency, radio market and brand name of the station. You’ll be surprised how many stations have been on the air.