Almost eight out of ten Kiwis now watching digital TV

The number of New Zealanders watching digital television has soared, according to the findings of a national survey today.

An estimated 77 % of New Zealand homes are watching digital television, up from 72 % on the previous quarter.

New Zealand’s analogue TV system will be progressively switched off across the country from September 2012 until November 2013. It is being replaced with a digital broadcast that will give viewers better reception and sound quality, as well as more channels and features such as onscreen TV guides.

The Colmar Brunton research, which was commissioned by Going Digital, does not include Canterbury data as a result of the region’s earthquake.

Greg Harford, Going Digital National Manager, said  the statistics showed there had been considerable interest from New Zealanders keen to go digital in the run-up to the Rugby World Cup.

“With Digital TV already available, it’s clear many New Zealanders have chosen to take advantage of the benefits it offers and made the switch now.

 “Going Digital means better reception and sound quality and more channels, as well as extra benefits like onscreen TV guides.

“We’re telling  Kiwis that any television can go digital, so people don’t need  a new TV, but they may need some new equipment to keep watching TV once the analogue system is turned off.”

People who watch Sky, TelstraClear or Freeview are already receiving the digital signal, so they don’t need to do anything. Other viewers will need to buy a set-top box and aerial or satellite dish depending on what equipment they currently have. 

Going Digital, part of the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, is running a comprehensive public information campaign to make sure people know everything they need to know about the switchover to digital television

Information about going digital is available on the website www.goingdigital.co.nz or by contacting the going digital helpline on 0800 838 800.

GOING DIGITAL BY REGION