TVNZ has today been announced as New Zealand Rugby’s free-to-air Provincial Rugby partner, including the National Provincial Championship (NPC), select Farah Palmer Cup (FPC) matches, and Heartland Championship Finals, with a multi-year agreement set to begin with the 2026 season.

TVNZ will broadcast all NPC games free-to-view on TVNZ+, with selected weekly games also on TVNZ 1 in key appointment-to-view slots, bringing the energy and excitement of grassroots rugby to fans across Aotearoa. In addition, select Farah Palmer Cup games and the Heartland Championship games will also be live and free on TVNZ+.

TVNZ’s Chief Executive, Jodi O’Donnell says, “I’m incredibly proud to be bringing rugby back to TVNZ after three decades. Provincial Rugby is woven into our country’s sporting DNA, and securing these competitions for free-to-air audiences reflects our commitment to investing in content that unites communities and drives engagement nationwide.

“There’s a strong demand for live and free sport in New Zealand, as demonstrated by the success of our existing sporting slate. This partnership with New Zealand Rugby marks a significant step in expanding our offering and delivering even greater access to audiences across the motu.”

TVNZ’s Head of Sports, Events and Partnerships, Melodie Robinson, says the return of free-to-air rugby at this scale is a major win for viewers and the sport.

“Rugby is a game close to my heart. Bringing the domestic game to free-to-air audiences on TVNZ means more fans for the code – wherever they’re based and however they choose to watch – and this will only help to inspire the next generation of supporters and players.

“I’m excited for our viewers to experience the pride, passion and rivalries that make Provincial Rugby so special.”

From round-robin clashes and knockout playoffs to the epic final crowning of the national champions, fans can enjoy even more thrilling rugby on TVNZ when the new season kicks off next July.

Notes:

• Sky is the broadcast partner for all of rugby in New Zealand. As part of their rights, all NPC matches and select Farah Palmer Cup matches will be broadcast live on Sky Sport and Sky Sport Now.
• TVNZ is the free to air broadcast partner for NPC, select Farah Palmer Cup matches and Heartland Championship finals
• TVNZ will broadcast three NPC matches per week free-to-air on TVNZ 1, with all weekly matches streaming on TVNZ+. Select Farah Palmer Cup matches will be broadcast free-to-view on TVNZ+ (including the finals), as well as the Heartland Championship finals.
• TVNZ+ coverage will air live. TVNZ 1 coverage will air live to delayed.

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