Television Viewing At Record Levels

Friday, 4 September 2009
Media Release
For Immediate Release

Television Viewing At Record Levels

Figures just released by AGBNielsen confirm a continuing trend of New Zealanders enjoying Free-to-Air television more than ever before.

In August 3,886,500 people 5 and over watched television, compared to 3,815,600 a year ago, an increase of 70,900 people or 1.9%.

The increase in viewers was spread across all television groups, with TVNZ viewers up by 53,800, an increase of 1.4%, MediaWorks TV (TV3 and C4) up 53,000 an increase of 1.4% and Maori Television up 209,600, an increase of 13.1%

Not only were more people watching television, viewers were, on average, watching more hours of television than last year. Average peak time hours viewed daily in August 2009 was 1.48 compared to 1.44 last August, an increase of 3.7%. The result is particular pleasing considering that the Olympics were broadcast during August of last year, so even without a comparable marquee event, more viewers turned to New Zealand's television broadcasters for their entertainment and information.

"There are several reasons for the increase" said Rick Friesen, Chief Executive of the NZTBC. "Continuing strong New Zealand dramas like Shortland Street and Outrageous Fortune and the comedy of Wipeout and Two and a half Men are all finding big audiences. The switch to digital television is providing a much better experience for viewers with the improved audio and video quality a real benefit, particularly for those investing in larger screens. For many viewers, Free-to-Air High Definition is adding even more to the viewing experience."

With the continuing positive trend for television viewing, Free-to-Air television continues to be the most cost effective way for advertisers to connect with mass audiences.

ENDS

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