Updated: TiVo comes to NZ

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TVNZ pays $9.8 million plus TV time for stake in platform

By Ulrika Hedquist | Auckland | Thursday, 26 March, 2009

TVNZ has finally confirmed market rumours that it is buying a share in TiVo in ANZ and bringing the platform to New Zealand by Christmas.

Hybrid Television Services, the Seven Network-owned regional licencee of TiVo, says TiVo lets viewers "take control of their TV experience", combining free-to-air digital television with broadband content, services and games.

This morning the Australian Financial Review reported that an announcement was imminent and that TVNZ paid $16 million for its one-third stake in Hybrid Television. TVNZ says, however, that it paid A$8 million (NZ$9.8 million) for the stake, plus TV time to promote the TiVo device.

TVNZ to buy TiVo share claims report
TiVo to become an ISP in Australia

It says broadband content in Australia includes Blockbuster movies and services and later in the year will include the ability to order pizza online. It says services like these are also intended for New Zealand, but a statement released today did not have any further details.

TVNZ has confirmed the service will be delivered in partnership with local ISPs. In Australia, Hybrid's partnership with ISP Internode allows Internode customers unlimited broadband downloads into the TiVo box.

The TiVo boxes will be available in New Zealand by Christmas 2009. Pricing has not yet been announced, but in Australia the devices cost A$699.

Hybrid says the dual HD TiVo tuners are compatible with Freeview HD. New Zealand users will also be able to use classic TiVo features, including Season Pass, which allows users to record a TV series in a single click; and WishList searches, which allows viewers to automatically record every programme containing their favourite actor or director.

A once-off purchase includes a seven day electronic programme guide (EPG).

Hybrid Television Services is owned by Australia's Seven Media Group and, now, by TVNZ. Jason Paris, head of emerging business for TVNZ, says the rapid adoption of TVNZ ondemand showed that New Zealanders are keen to have more control over their TV viewing experience.

A website has been launched at www.mytivo.co.nz where retailers and customers can register their interest.