With the massive impact of recorded music on creating a great atmosphere, it is only fair that the owners of that recorded music be paid when their music is played in a public, community or business setting. The purchasing of a CD or the downloading of music tracks provides you with the permission to use this music in a domestic setting only. So, to play recorded music in public, in the community or in a business - even if you have purchased it for domestic use - requires the consent or permission of the copyright owner. In New Zealand, these rights of recording artists and labels are protected under the Copyright Act 1994.
As gaining these permissions would be a time consuming and cumbersome process for both music users and music makers, PPNZ exists to make this consent process quick, easy and affordable. PPNZ offers a "blanket" recorded music licence tailored to your business or other public use, covering many millions of tracks from recording companies and artists in New Zealand and worldwide.
Please note that, although PPNZ's members' repertoire is extensive (over 9 million tracks) there are some limited exceptions to the music that PPNZ's members represent. For example, some independent releases from overseas territories may not be covered by PPNZ's licence and the permission of the copyright owner of those sound recordings will need to be obtained directly by the person wishing to play them in public in New Zealand.
Apply for your PPNZ licence by selecting the organisation type that applies to you and then complete and submit the application form.
If you have any questions as to whether the recorded music you are playing is covered by PPNZ's licence, or are unsure as to what category your organisation falls under, please contact our licensing team on 0800 88 77 69 or email your enquiry to info@ppnz.co.nz. We are here to assist you.
