Walkie-Talkies 101: Your Ultimate Guide to Two-Way Radios

You're here probably because you're thinking about buying a walkie talkie or handy talkie, or maybe you're just curious and want a full review about two way radio technology available in New Zealand.

We've been working with top communication solutions companies like Hytera, Tait, and Motorola for years. We've taken the courses, worked closely with engineers and sales teams, and learned exactly what customers in New Zealand care about when it comes to walkie talkies.

Most of the information we've seen online is either too biased or misses the point for Kiwi users. That's why we decided to put this guide together and keep it updated.

This guide is perfect if you are new to two-way radios or you're looking for a complete guide. If you're already an expert looking for advanced technical specs, this blog might be a bit too basic. Take your time, read through it, and get the facts you need to find the best walkie talkie for you.

Here's what you'll find in this blog:

• What is a walkie talkie?
• What is a two-way radio?
• Walkie talkie vs. two-way radio
• Walkie talkie vs. smartphones?
• How do walkie talkies work?
• VHF vs. UHF in New Zealand
• How far can they really reach?
• Can different brands talk to each other?
• Battery and safety tips
• What are the different types of two-way radios available here?
• Tips for buying in NZ

Differences between walkie talkies and smartphones?

When people hear “walkie talkies,” they often think about smartphones. It makes sense, as phones have tons of functions, wide signal coverage through cellular networks, and are super easy to carry. They've become a must-have tool in daily life.

Actually, walkie talkies have a much longer history than smartphones. They were first developed in the 1930s and quickly became an essential tool for military communication during World War II. In the broader history of radio communication in New Zealand, methods like Morse code were also widely used for sending encoded messages.

A BIG difference between smartphones and walkie talkies is whether a network is needed. Smartphones connect to the nearest cell tower, then through a telephone exchange, and finally connect to the person you're calling.

Walkie talkies (excluding PoC radios) don't rely on cell signals. You just press the PTT (push-to-talk) button and talk instantly.

NO dialling, NO waiting, NO network needed.

And since walkie talkies don't rely on call charges or data packages, they're free to use for one-to-one and one-to-all calls, making them perfect for coordinating teams on a farm, construction site, or out on the boat.

What is a walkie talkie?

Walkie-talkies are compact, handheld radios that let people communicate instantly using radio waves, as long as they're tuned to the same frequency. They're light, easy to carry, and perfect for short-range communication.

What is a two-way radio?

Two-way radios are built to be tougher and more flexible. They often come with higher power output, longer range, programmable channels, and work well in harsh environments. So they are best for professional, industrial, or mission-critical communication.

Walkie talkie vs. two-way radio

After reviewing a lot of materials and talking with our engineers, we've put together a list of differences between walkie talkies and two-way radios. For this blog, though, we'll use both terms without making a distinction.

Can different brands talk with each other?

If you enjoy hiking, 4wd adventures, or work on a large site, a common question is: "Do I need to buy the same brand of walkie talkie as my friends or colleagues?"

Our answer is "NO".

Different brands can communicate, but only if their settings match precisely.

Generally, digital radios and analogue radios cannot talk to each other. They use completely different methods to transmit a signal.

For analogue radios, they must be:

• On the same frequency band (e.g., both UHF or both VHF).
• Programmed to the exact same frequency.
• Set to the same CTCSS or DCS privacy code (or both set to 'no code').

For digital radios, the requirements are stricter. They must have all of the above PLUS use the same digital protocol (e.g., both DMR, both TETRA, etc.). A digital radio cannot understand an analogue signal and vice versa.

Getting different walkie talkies to talk to each other isn't about brand names. What matters is that their core settings match: the frequency, the CTCSS/DCS code (if used), and being on the same band (UHF/VHF) and mode (analogue/digital). If these technical settings match, you can easily talk with different radios.

How do walkie talkies work?

Once the radios are set up, using them is simple. Just press and hold the Push-to-Talk (PTT) button to speak, then release it to listen. Some radios, like those from Hytera, even have dual PTT buttons to make operation more flexible.

Using standard walkie talkie lingo and codes can help streamline communication and avoid misunderstandings. Some common codes include:

• 10-4: Message received
• Roger: Message understood
• Over: End of transmission, waiting for a reply
• Out: End of transmission, no reply needed

How far can walkie talkies reach?

The answer depends on what radio you use and how you use it. Let's explore from four conditions: standard use, with a repeater, with a trunking system, and using PoC radios.

Standard use: In open areas, personal walkie talkies often range between 1 to 3 kilometres. Models designed for outdoor use might reach up to 10 km. In cities or densely populated areas, the range typically drops to around 1 km due to buildings and other structures interfering with the signal.

With a repeater: One or more repeaters boost and relay signals, allowing walkie talkies coverage up to 50 km or more. This is common for farms and large industrial sites in NZ.

With a Trunking system: For even greater coverage, a trunking system can provide range over hundreds of kilometres with multiple repeaters. That's why they're widely used by emergency services and public safety teams who rely on stable, large-area communication.

Using PoC radio: Nationwide range? Push-to-Talk Over Cellular (PoC) radios with a SIM card can achieve nationwide coverage. As long as you are within a cellular network, you are connected.

That's why you rarely see specific range information in manuals. The range depends on the device itself—like transmitter power, antenna quality, and frequency band—but it's also strongly influenced by the environment.

Mountains, buildings, trees, and weather all reduce range. The length, gain, and frequency compatibility of the antenna matters. The operating mode—whether direct (simplex) or through repeaters (trunking)—also makes a big difference.

Let's look at two major technical factors: frequency band and transmitter power.

Frequency bands are divided into channels. In New Zealand, the main radio frequencies include VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency):

• VHF (Very High Frequency, 30-300 MHz): Better for open, outdoor areas like farms or for marine use where it can achieve a longer range.
• UHF (Ultra High Frequency, 300-3000 MHz): Better at penetrating buildings, walls, and other obstacles, making it the superior choice for use in cities, indoors, or in wooded areas.

This difference is due to the physical properties of their wavelengths. Remember, radios MUST be on the same band to communicate—a VHF radio cannot talk to a UHF radio.

As for transmitter power, it directly impacts range. In New Zealand, license-free radios are limited in power, while licensed commercial radios can transmit at higher power levels, providing significantly better reach and signal reliability, especially for health and safety applications.

Battery and safety tips

Always ensure your walkie talkies are well-maintained to maximise device battery life. Walkie talkies with fully charged batteries and clean antennas will help avoid signal loss. Modern radios use high-capacity lithium batteries that can last a full workday.

Remember that standard radio channels are not private. Anyone on the same frequency can listen in. It's best to avoid sharing sensitive information. For secure comms, licensed digital radios with encryption are the best solution.

What are the Different Types of Two-Way Radios?

In New Zealand, radios are subject to rules from Radio Spectrum Management (RSM). Radios are often divided into license-free radios, PoC radios, amateur radios, and professional radios.

Public (License-Free) Walkie Talkies

License-free radios (PRS or CB) are great for casual use. They're usually compact, with fixed antennas. Best for hiking, 4wd convoys, or short-range chatting—no licence required and easy to use. Popular brands include GME and Uniden.

PoC Radios (Push-to-Talk over Cellular)

PoC radios use cellular or Wi-Fi networks instead of traditional radio frequencies. You just insert a SIM card and you can talk anywhere nationwide. They often include GPS tracking, messaging, and group calling. PoC is perfect for businesses with teams spread across the country.

Amateur Radios

The world of amateur radio is far from "amateur". It requires both an operator certificate and a radio licence from RSM. Made for hobbyists and certified “ham” operators to operate on a wide range of channels for long-distance communication. Ham radio frequencies are for non-commercial use only.

Professional Radios

Professional radios are rugged, reliable and durable under pressure. They are best for law enforcement, fire departments, construction, agriculture, and other critical services where health and safety depend on clear communication. Brands like Tait, Motorola, and Hytera are leaders in this space.

Today, radios are evolving. One example is the integration of a body worn camera with PTT voice communication. While primarily a digital evidence recorder, it can also function as a radio, combining surveillance and communication into one device.

Two Things to Consider Before Buying for Personal Use

Walkie Talkie Type

License-free radios are the easiest option. You can use them straight away without paperwork. Amateur radios require you to pass a certification test.

So, if you just want something simple for the bach or a hunting trip, go with a license-free twin pack. If you're a hobbyist willing to learn, amateur radio could be your choice.

Functions

Think about how and where you'll use it. For chatting in the park, a basic talk function is enough. If you're hiking, camping, or boating, look for rugged, waterproof radios with an IP67 rating. Remember that the more features a walkie talkie has, the higher the price tends to be. So balance what you need with what's nice to have.

At Mobile Systems Limited, we provide expert advice and tailored communication solutions to keep your team connected, no matter the environment. Explore our range of professional two-way radios and services today. Learn more at https://mobilesystems.nz.