New Zealand Rugby Announces Major Broadcast Agreement with Sky

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) has confirmed a significant new broadcast agreement with Sky, ensuring comprehensive coverage of major rugby events over the next five years. This deal will include all matches featuring the All Blacks, Black Ferns, Super Rugby Pacific, Super Rugby Aupiki, as well as the National Provincial Championship (NPC) and Farah Palmer Cup.

While the agreement covers a wide array of domestic fixtures, it notably excludes up to five offshore test matches for both the All Blacks and Black Ferns during the contract period. NZR aims to negotiate the broadcasting rights for these matches on a case-by-case basis, allowing for potential revenue generation if confirmed.

David Kirk, NZR chairperson, expressed satisfaction with the new agreement, stating, “We’re delighted to confirm this new agreement with our long-term partner Sky, which will see Sky remain the home of rugby in New Zealand.” He emphasized the excitement ahead, highlighting a thrilling international calendar that includes both a men’s and a historic first women’s British & Irish Lions tour.

Expanded Coverage and New Partnerships

In addition to Sky’s ongoing partnership, NZR has also entered into an agreement with TVNZ to enhance free-to-air coverage of provincial rugby. Kirk remarked, “We are pleased to partner with TVNZ to provide expanded free-to-air coverage of provincial rugby.” This collaboration will make 93 provincial matches available for free viewing on TVNZ+, including three games weekly in prominent viewing slots on TVNZ 1. These matches will also be broadcast co-exclusively live on Sky.

Kirk described the agreement as a “win-win-win outcome,” securing a stable revenue stream for NZR while maintaining Sky as a key partner and increasing viewing options for rugby fans. He noted the positive financial outlook and the expansion of rugby coverage, which aims to improve fan access.

The agreement comes on the heels of promising viewership numbers for both the All Blacks and Black Ferns. The recent Super Rugby Pacific Final recorded its highest viewership since 2016, reinforcing the sport’s popularity.

Future Developments on International Broadcasts

Looking ahead, NZR plans to finalize its international broadcast agreements, further broadening rugby’s reach. Kirk underscored the organization’s commitment to enhancing access to rugby for fans through this broadcast agreement and a broader content strategy, which includes exciting domestic and international competitions.

Starting next year, the Black Ferns will participate in a new international women’s calendar, featuring more test matches against top teams worldwide. The announcement of the All Blacks’ calendar, which will include new competitions and tours, is also anticipated in the coming months.

With this comprehensive broadcast agreement, NZR aims not only to secure its financial foundation but also to elevate the profile of rugby in New Zealand, ensuring fans have more ways than ever to engage with the sport.