The New Zealand Government plans to mandate that local streaming apps, including TVNZ+, Sky’s ThreeNow, and MĀORI+, be pre-installed and easily accessible on all smart televisions sold in the country. Media Minister Paul Goldsmith stated the move aims to ensure local media maintains visibility against global competitors that often secure prime placement on home screens and device remotes.
Why the government is intervening
According to Media Minister Paul Goldsmith, the decision follows observations that no local apps were pre-installed on the newest models from two major television brands. The government argues that prominence directly influences viewership and advertising revenue. By requiring manufacturers to feature local services, officials intend to ensure New Zealand media receives what Goldsmith described as a “fair crack” at attracting audiences. TVNZ has welcomed the announcement, noting that local organizations face a disadvantage when global platforms can effectively purchase prominence on television interfaces.
How the new rules compare to international standards
The proposed New Zealand requirements mirror policies already implemented in the United Kingdom and Australia. Minister Goldsmith stated that the government is monitoring these international precedents as it develops its own regulatory framework. While global streaming services like Netflix frequently hold dedicated buttons on TV remotes, local providers have struggled to achieve similar levels of integration. This shift comes as the local media industry navigates a transition away from linear broadcast transmission toward an internet-only model, raising concerns that future devices might otherwise default to international content.
What happens next for manufacturers and broadcasters
The implementation of these requirements will require legislation to pass through Parliament, followed by a transition period to allow manufacturers to adjust their operations. Minister Goldsmith noted that a lag of approximately 18 months is likely to be provided to ensure compliance. While the current mandate focuses on smart TVs and streaming devices, the government may consider extending these rules to gaming consoles and set-top boxes during the development phase. Decisions regarding which regulator will oversee the scheme and the specific penalties for non-compliance have yet to be finalized.
The future of linear television
As the government pushes for digital prominence, the industry continues to weigh the future of traditional terrestrial broadcasting. Victoria University associate professor Peter Thompson noted that while linear television is in an “irreversible downward decline,” it remains a significant part of the media landscape. Freeview general manager Leon Mead reported that the linear platform still reaches two-thirds of New Zealand homes. Although there is no firm date for a terrestrial switch-off, broadcasters face rising cost pressures to maintain niche channels, and industry players are still awaiting clarity on future spectrum licensing, which is expected to be reviewed around 2033.
