How to Choose a Race Radio System in NZ & Australia
Harris Race Radios TeamWhether you’re building your first race car or upgrading an existing communications setup, choosing the right radio system can be the difference between a smooth event and a frustrating one. Harris Race Radios is the Exclusive Official Authorised Distributor and Dealer for Rugged Radios in Australasia — and a team of qualified radio engineers and race engineers. We’ve helped hundreds of competitors across New Zealand and Australia get their comms right.
We hold NZ stock for fast local dispatch and ship to Australia. Here’s what to consider when choosing your system.
UHF vs VHF — Which Do You Need?
In New Zealand and Australia, UHF (Ultra High Frequency) is the standard for most motorsport applications. It’s licence-free on CB channels in both countries, making it the practical choice for club and amateur competition. VHF is used in some professional and international series but requires a licence and is less common at club level in Australasia.
Our recommendation: Unless your series specifically requires VHF, go UHF. See our UHF vs VHF guide for more detail.
Handheld vs Mobile Radio
Handheld radios are portable, versatile, and ideal for pit crew, marshals, and anyone who moves around the venue. Mobile (in-car) radios are permanently mounted in the vehicle and offer more power and better antenna options for driver-to-pit communication, and don’t require charging.
For most race cars in NZ and AU, handhelds work well in both car and pits. However, a mobile radio in the car paired with handhelds for the pit crew is the most effective setup where longer ranges are required — such as offroad events.
Do You Need an Intercom?
If you have a co-driver, navigator, or passenger, an intercom is essential. It allows in-car communication between crew members independently of the radio, with the radio integrated so both can communicate with the pit. Rugged Radios intercoms range from compact 2-place units to expandable 4-place systems for larger crews.
See our Offroad Intercom Guide for more detail.
Helmet Kits & Headsets
Your helmet integration matters. Rugged Radios offer wired helmet kits for both open and closed-face helmets, compatible with their intercom and radio range. Getting the right kit for your helmet type ensures clear audio and a clean installation.
Wiring Harnesses
A quality radio wiring harness is essential for a clean, reliable in-car installation. Harris Race Radios stocks vehicle-specific and universal harnesses for Rugged Radios systems.
Repair & Support
This is where buying from a specialist matters. At Harris Race Radios, our team can program, install, and repair most Rugged Radios equipment — something a general electronics retailer can’t offer. As the Exclusive Official Authorised Distributor and Dealer for Rugged Radios in Australasia, we also provide on-site support at motorsport events across NZ and Australia.
Ready to Build Your System?
Browse our full Rugged Radios range or contact us to talk through your specific requirements with one of our engineers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a radio licence for motorsport in NZ or Australia?
For UHF CB channels (the most common setup for club motorsport in NZ and AU), no licence is required. VHF and some other frequencies do require a licence. Rex Harris is a qualified Radio Telecommunications Engineer and Approved Radio Certifier for both NZ RSM and AU ACMA — he can advise on licensing requirements for your specific setup. See our Radio Licence Q&A for more detail.
What is the best race radio system for NZ club motorsport?
For most NZ club competitors, a UHF handheld radio system is the most practical and cost-effective choice. Rugged Radios handhelds are purpose-built for motorsport environments — noise-cancelling, durable, and easy to use. Harris Race Radios is the Exclusive Official Authorised Distributor and Dealer for Rugged Radios in Australasia.
Do I need an intercom if I have a co-driver?
Yes. An intercom allows clear in-car communication between driver and co-driver independently of the radio, with the radio integrated so both can talk to the pit. Without an intercom, in-car communication in a race environment is extremely difficult due to helmet and engine noise.
Can Harris Race Radios install and program my radio system?
Yes. Our team can program, install, and repair most Rugged Radios equipment. We also provide on-site support at motorsport events across NZ and Australia. Contact Aaron on +64 27 449 9654 or online.
What wiring harness do I need for a Rugged Radios system?
Harris Race Radios stocks both vehicle-specific and universal wiring harnesses for Rugged Radios systems. Browse our radio wiring harness range or contact us for a recommendation based on your vehicle and system.
Why Buy From Harris Race Radios?
Harris Race Radios is the Exclusive Official Authorised Distributor and Dealer for Rugged Radios in Australasia, with NZ stock held locally for fast dispatch and shipping to Australia. Our team brings unmatched depth of knowledge:
- Rex Harris — Qualified Radio Telecommunications Engineer and Approved Radio Certifier for both NZ RSM and AU ACMA, with motorsport radio experience dating back to 1975 at the Marlboro Series Grand Prix. Rex has decades of hands-on experience programming, installing, and certifying motorsport radio systems across NZ and AU.
- Aaron Harris — Active racing driver and race engineer. Barcelona 24 Hour 1st in class (2013), Bathurst 1000 and 12 Hour competitor, BMW Race Driver Series Champion (2011). Race engineer for Earl Bamber Motorsport, TekworkX, Matt Stone Racing, and Porsche Carrera Cup Australia, Asia-Pacific, and NZ. MSNZ Licence Examiner for helmets, racewear, FHR, and HANS. Contact Aaron: +64 27 449 9654 or aaron@harriscomms.co.nz.
Genuine factory stock, expert installation and programming, and a team that uses the same equipment they sell at the track. Read more about us →