Rugged Radios NZ & Australia — UTV, Offroad & Motorsport Communication Systems
Rugged Radios NZ & Australia — UTV, Off-Road & Motorsport Communications
Harris Race Radios is the Exclusive Official Authorised Distributor and Dealer for Rugged Radios in Australasia, supplying genuine intercoms, helmet kits, radios and accessories to NZ and AU competitors. We match a system to the vehicle, team, intended radio band and governing rules, rather than treating every model as a universal UHF CB radio.
Radio legality depends on the particular model, frequency, output, programming and use in each country. Some UHF CB uses operate under a class licence while other services require their own authorisation. Ask us to check your configuration before you operate it; neither an appointment as distributor nor Rex's radio qualification makes every product automatically legal out of the box.
Why Buy through Harris Race Radios?
- Genuine Rugged Radios sourced through the authorised Australasian supply channel
- Technical help selecting a compatible intercom, radio, helmet kit, adapter and antenna
- Country- and use-specific guidance on frequency, programming and licensing
- Rex Harris is a qualified Radio Telecommunications Engineer, RSM Approved Radio Engineer (ARE127) and Approved Radio Certifier (ARC127)
- Aaron Harris is a racing driver, race engineer and MotorSport NZ Licence Examiner for licences only, not an examiner or certifier of helmets, racewear or FHR/HANS devices
- NZ-based stock and shipping to Australia; check current availability and delivery when ordering
Choose a System by Use
| Application | Equipment to compare | Before operation |
|---|---|---|
| UTV and 4WD | RRP696 intercom and compatible vehicle radio | Check vehicle fit, connector and radio authorisation |
| Rally and off-road motorsport | Race Series intercom, helmet kits and compatible radio | Check event rules, radio band and programming |
| Circuit and endurance | In-car intercom and pit-to-car radio | Check crew equipment and any frequency licence |
| Speedway and short course | Receiver, helmet audio and crew headsets | Check one-way receiver and event requirements |
| Pit crew and chase team | Compatible handheld and mobile radios | Check radio model, operating band and local rules |
The Team Behind Harris Race Radios
Three generations of motorsport communications experience.
Rex Harris — Radio Engineer and Approved Radio Certifier
Rex is a qualified Radio Telecommunications Engineer, RSM Approved Radio Engineer (ARE127) and Approved Radio Certifier (ARC127), with motorsport radio experience dating back to 1975. His role relates to radio systems and does not certify helmets or safety equipment.
Aaron Harris — Racing Driver, Race Engineer and Licence Examiner
Aaron is a Barcelona 24 Hour class winner, Bathurst competitor, race engineer and MotorSport NZ Licence Examiner. His licence-examiner role concerns driver licences only. It does not make him a helmet, racewear, hybrid, FHR or HANS examiner or certifier. His racing and engineering experience informs practical motorsport equipment advice.
Read Aaron's motorsport career
Charlie Harris
Charlie represents the next generation of Harris Race Radios.
Other Motorsport Equipment
Explore DTG Race Products and AiM Sport alongside the Rugged Radios range. Brand appointment titles are specific to each brand and do not transfer to helmet certification.
NZ and AU Applications
From NZ club and off-road events to Australian UTV, desert and circuit racing, choose radio equipment for the actual vehicle, crew and rules. Keep the Rugged Off-Road/UTV/4WD route distinct from marine, motorcycle, aviation and industrial communications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Rugged Radios automatically legal in NZ and Australia?
No. Check the particular unit's model, frequency band, output, programming and intended operation against RSM or ACMA rules. Contact us before ordering if you need a specific licensed or class-licensed setup.
Do I need a licence?
It depends on the radio service, band, power and use. Some compliant UHF CB operation is covered by class licences; other frequencies or configurations require additional authorisation. Rex can advise on radio requirements for a specific setup.
Are US GMRS radios the same as NZ or AU UHF CB?
No. Do not assume a US GMRS-configured unit can be used on NZ or AU UHF CB channels. Check the model and applicable authorisations before operation.
Which intercom suits a UTV?
Compare the RRP696 and compatible mobile radios by seat count, helmet/headset connection, vehicle mount and legal radio configuration. Tell us about your vehicle.
Is Harris Race Radios the official Rugged Radios distributor?
Yes. Harris Race Radios is the Exclusive Official Authorised Distributor and Dealer for Rugged Radios in Australasia.