There are two state funded television channels in New Zealand, imaginatively entitled TV1 and TV2. Both are operated by state broadcaster, Television New Zealand, as commercial channels. TV1 has more British programming, news and documentaries than TV2, which features more American programming and is aimed at a younger audience in general. There is a third, privately funded channel called TV3 and a spin-off channel called C4 - essentially a music channel aimed at young viewers.

A new digital service called Freeview is now available in New Zealand. The service is free and allows all New Zealanders to watch their favourite programs in crystal clear, high resolution digital quality. Viewers need to pay for a set-top box(around $300) and if necessary a satellite dish but there is no monthly charge for programming.

Viewers can also tune into Prime Television, which is broadcast from Australia and includes a mix of programming, from Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? to endless re-runs of Midsummer Murders. In addition to the three main television channels, there are regional television stations in some parts of the country, which provide local, community-oriented programming.
To truly immerse yourself in kiwi culture, there’s a Maori television station, which is partly funded by the Government.