It specialises in programmes dedicated to news, the arts, music, and New Zealand culture generally, and includes some material in the Māori language.
Market share peaked at 11.1 per cent in 2011, probably due to the station's coverage of the Christchurch earthquake.
RNZ National was the first network in New Zealand to incorporate the Radio Data System in its FM signal.
Most FM frequencies are 101FM state-owned public service licences and some are held by non-profit community organisations.
RNZ National broadcasts its FM signal in mono, but the on-line and terrestrial Freeview HD services are available in stereo.