Whakatane Radio Telephone Users Association
Enabling Land Mobile Radio Telephone Services Across the Eastern Bay of Plenty
Our Story
The Whakatane Radio Telephone Users Association – affectionately known as “the RTU” – has been quietly and efficiently enabling the operation of radio telephone systems across the Eastern Bay since 1970.
Structured as a member-owned cooperative in the form of an incorporated society, the WRTUA membership comprises over 40 member-users. Among these are emergency services, local government, contracting companies, veterinary practices, and many other businesses who use the Land Mobile Radio (LMR) Telephone for their day to day operations.
We own and manage 4 repeater sites – at Manawahe, Putauaki (Mt Edgecumbe), Moutohora (Whale Island), and Waiputatawa (Opotiki).
Members pay an annual subscription for the right to use our repeaters to connect their LMR Telephone systems.
Despite the ubiquity of cellphones, the RT is still in heavy use due to its superior coverage, economy, social inclusiveness and team-building character. Our coverage for LMR telephones ranges from the top of East Cape, to west of Maketu, and south beyond Murupara.
Celebrate Whakatane Radio Telephone Users Assoc. Inc History
Download our Constitution and Rules
Our Constitution and Rules can also be found here on the NZ Business Number website. Search for us then – go to “Filings” and look for the most recent filing of our “Rules”
Our Committee
Chairman
John Dillon
johndillon@bayvets.net.nz
Deputy Chairman/Operations Manager
Chris Prouse
chris@prouse.co.nz
Technical Manager
Paul Garaway
gusgaraway@xtra.co.nz
Committee Members
Paul Allington
paul.allington@whakatane.govt.nz
Service Updates
Late April 2020 we experienced a fault with our Whale Islands site Channel 2. Remedial work was scheduled for 8 May. All other VHF & UHF repeater channels are fully operational. We apologise for any inconvenience.
This above fault was rectified – a 50 cent DC fuse had failed. However, the cost of the helicopter visit and technicians was significantly more expensive.
For more up to date goings on check out our Facebook page HERE
Our coverage for Land Mobile Radio Telephones, ranges from the top of East Cape, to west of Maketu, and south beyond Murupara.
Service Contacts
Engineering Service Contractors:
Dove Communications Ltd
0800 83 55 55
https://www.dovecom.co.nz/
Technical Issues:
Chris Prouse, Operations Manager
0274 800 477
Paul Garaway, Technical Manager
027 392 6213
Finance and Accounts:
Kay Smart – Accountant
Smart Accounting Services Ltd
07 307 8088