From February 2009, the signal from 121.5MHz and 243MHz Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) will no longer be monitored by satellite. This means that if you need help in an emergency, we’ll have no way of hearing you. The signal is already unreliable as there are fewer satellites monitoring the old frequencies.

Don’t leave it too late to upgrade – switch to a digital 406MHz PLB now.

What is a PLB?

Personal Locator Beacons are designed for personal use, mainly by bushwalkers, cross-country vehicle clubs, mountaineers and other adventurers on land. They can also be used in light aircraft, gliders, hot air balloons and in some maritime situations.

They’re small enough to fit in your pocket and are activated manually.

What kind of 406MHz PLB do I need?

There is a wide range of beacons available for land use. Some PLBs have GPS coordinates integrated into their signal, which dramatically improves their accuracy. This means your location can be identified by RCCNZ on the first contact with a satellite. Without GPS it would require two satellites to pick up your beacon signal, to resolve the ambiguity of the satellite positions. The time between satellite passes varies greatly, ranging between 20 minutes and 4.5 hours.

Your local supplier will be able to guide you to which option is most suitable for your needs, taking into account the kind of activity you engage in.

Where should I keep it?

Tramping, climbing, & adventure sports:

On your person. Do not keep it in clothing or pieces of equipment that might get left behind or dropped in an accident.

4x4 wheel driving:

In the glove box or another safe and accessible compartment - preferably somewhere it is free from vibration, which could cause accidental activation in rough terrain.

In the air:

If you are using a PLB in any kind of aircraft, you must keep it on your person.

At sea:

If you are using a PLB in a maritime situation, you must keep it on your person.

Don't buy a foreign 406!

Each country has an individual 406 code. When you purchase a 406MHz distress beacon, make sure it is coded for New Zealand. The New Zealand Country Code is 512. If you buy one from overseas or over the Internet, it could be an expensive mistake. When it is activated the satellite may notify the wrong rescue coordination centre which could mean a long, potentially life-threatening delay in your rescue.

Remember - you must register your new beacon.

This means Search and Rescue can contact you to verify an activation. This can improve search response time and help cut down on false alarms. Once your beacon is registered, you will need to keep your details up to date and notify the register if the beacon changes ownership. Registration is FREE. To register your beacon, call the Rescue Coordination Centre NZ on 0800 406 111 or 0508 406 111.

Click here for the 406 Distress Beacon Registration Form.