Clayton Mitchell MP

Spokesperson for Sport and Recreation
8 DECEMBER 2015

Live Free-to-Air Sports Broadcasts Looking Likely

Kiwis are in with a chance to watch the British and Irish rugby tour next year live on TV without having to subscribe.

“New Zealand First’s bill for live, free-to-air sports broadcasts will be introduced into Parliament next year.

“Unfortunately, this summer tennis fans will miss out on watching the ASB Classic live unless they pay for a ticket or subscribe to pay TV.

“The Broadcasting (Games of National Significance) Amendment Bill will make sports viewing fair for all New Zealanders.

“Many cannot afford to pay for a TV subscription yet through taxes they have paid for a state-funded TV broadcaster.

“TVNZ has confirmed there is an appetite for free sports broadcasts saying there has been a ‘resounding viewer response” to sport on its pop-up channel.

“New Zealand now has the opportunity to follow Britain and Australia which have laws ensuring their citizens have live free-to-air-sports broadcasts.

“Only Kiwis who can afford to pay have been privileged to see our sportspeople compete in significant sporting events, which is simply not fair.

“Our Bill will break down the barriers and use the tax-payer funded state broadcaster to promote and screen games and events of national significance for all New Zealanders to enjoy,” says Mr Mitchell.

ENDS

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