Licences
Ngā Raihana
Under New Zealand copyright law, playing a piece of recorded music in a broadcast, online or in public requires a licence to use the rights in the musical work and in the sound recording itself. Recorded Music NZ is a collective management organisation that acts on behalf of sound recording copyright owners and exclusive licensees to license and collect payment for certain uses of sound recordings in Aotearoa. Find out more about the licences we provide at the links below.
Music in business (OneMusic)
All businesses that play music – whether in a restaurant, bar, gym, workplace, shop, or other public setting – need a licence to use music. This licensing is administered by OneMusic.
Radio
Radio stations must obtain a licence to play recorded music in their broadcasts, programmes or webcasts.
Television
Television broadcasters must obtain a licence to broadcast, communicate via their websites and for the limited reproduction of recorded music into their programmes.
Digital & Online
Video and audio services and broadcasts can take the form of subscription television and video services or online radio stations. Licences may be available from Recorded Music NZ for these services.
Cinema
To play music in films, trailers, ads, or public areas like foyers, Cinema Exhibitors need the right to use both sound recordings and musical works. OneMusic now provides a single licence that covers both.
Other Licences
There are a range of other licences required for: playing sound recordings at Sporting and Special Events; using sound recordings in Videography; and Copying and Reproducing recorded music in different ways.
Navigating your licensing needs
Choose the licence type relevant to your needs from the options above to learn more about our licensing process and requirements. Got pātai that aren’t answered here or in the FAQs below? Contact us at info@recordedmusic.co.nz