Sky TV and Discovery Networks Asia Pacific have announced a long-term exclusive partnership for Discovery Networks programming in New Zealand.
The multi-year agreement also includes the addition of two new channels in New Zealand – TLC and Discovery Turbo – which will be available to all Sky domestic customers over the next few months as part of the basic subscription package.
“We have enjoyed a long and successful partnership with Discovery Networks Asia Pacific and today’s announcement is an exciting one as we further cement our partnership,” said Sky ceo John Fellet.
“We are proud to have Discovery Channel as a pillar of our basic offering having broadcast the channel since our UHF days in the ’90s. Now we are able to share six great Discovery Networks channels with all of our domestic customers.”
Discovery Networks’ current NZ portfolio includes localised versions of global brands Discovery Channel and Animal Planet and local lifestyle channels Food TV and Living Channel. The additions of TLC and Discovery Turbo will complement these.
“Our commitment to driving value for subscription television audiences has been seen through strong investment in high quality and engaging programming, dedicated NZ schedules and local productions,” said Discovery Networks Asia Pacific general manager Mandy Pattinson.
Launching in September as part of Sky’s basic package is TLC, the exclusive home of programming from the Oprah Winfrey Network as well as female factual entertainment programming including Say Yes To The Dress, Oprah Where Are They Now, The Little Couple, I Am Jazz and America with Lisa Ling.
And in November, Discovery Turbo will also become available to all Sky seeking “adrenaline fuelled, motored entertainment dedicated to man and machine” (Fast N’ Loud, Wheeler Dealers, Chasing Classic Cars, American Chopper).
Both channels will be programmed specifically for New Zealand audiences with a large variety of premiere series and programmes. Further schedule details for both will be released closer to launch.
The content deal also incorporates exclusive digital rights to provide access to thousands of hours of additional library content which will be available to all Sky customers.
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