TVNZ Reports $4.9M Profit and Highlights Top-Rated Shows of the Year
TVNZ’s Performance Overview
TVNZ has reported an annual earnings figure of $4.9 million, navigating through a “challenging” year while revealing the country’s top-viewed shows.
The broadcaster intends to distribute a $3.1 million dividend to the Crown, claiming it has effectively managed tough economic situations and is now well-positioned to implement its ambitious digital strategy.
Financial Insights
In its annual report, TVNZ disclosed underlying operational earnings (EBIT) of $4.9 million and an adjusted net profit after tax of $10.7 million for the year ending in June. The final net profit after tax (NPAT) is reported as $25.7 million, including net positive, non-cash impairment adjustments.
TVNZ+ also saw a weekly audience increase to 1.59 million Kiwis, marking a 12.7% year-on-year growth.
The broadcaster noted that local favorites such as Shortland Street and Hyundai Country Calendar, alongside popular international shows including The Day of the Jackal, Rogue Heroes, The Rookie, and Love Island, contributed to this growth.
Overall revenue experienced a slight dip of 2.7% year-on-year, totaling $281.1 million due to what TVNZ described as “challenging trading conditions” and ongoing market disruptions.
Interestingly, despite the decrease in overall revenue, digital advertising revenue grew by 12.7% year-on-year, now making up a quarter of total advertising revenue.
The Landscape of Mass Audiences
TVNZ’s CEO, Jodi O’Donnell, expressed confidence in the broadcaster’s ability to tap into its wide audience reach, enhance its digital strategy, and fulfill its goal of becoming New Zealand’s leading streaming platform for local content, trustworthy news, entertainment, and sports.
“I’m proud of the commitment and resilience TVNZers have exhibited to achieve this result,” commented O’Donnell.
O’Donnell emphasized that significant steps were taken to restructure operating costs, aligning the company with a digital future, resulting in reduced underlying costs by $41.2 million. Notably, long-standing programs Fair Go and Sunday were discontinued last May.
TVNZ’s Most-Watched Shows Revealed
The annual results also showcased an “audience snapshot” highlighting the most popular shows broadcast on TVNZ and its TVNZ+ streaming platform.
Top Programs on TV Channels
Leading Shows on TVNZ+
Strategic Digital Expansion
TVNZ is currently in the first year of its five-year Digital+ strategy, which aims to double its audience aged 18-54, triple its digital advertising revenue, and create a sustainable operational model.
O’Donnell stated that TVNZ remains New Zealand’s largest free-to-air network, reaching 2.4 million Kiwis weekly. She added that audiences are increasingly engaging online.
“The FY26 lineup is world-class, including events like the ANZ Premiership Netball and the FIFA World Cup 26, which viewers can eagerly anticipate,” O’Donnell remarked.
Next year, the improved TVNZ+ streaming platform will roll out, featuring advanced user experience and functionalities, allowing access to pay-TV events. Football fans will have the opportunity to buy passes for all 104 FIFA World Cup matches, including replays and highlights.
Looking ahead, TVNZ anticipates an underlying operations earnings (EBIT) loss in 2026 and 2027 due to significant investment in technology projects aimed at strategic growth.
O’Donnell concluded, “This is a generational opportunity to invest in TVNZ and secure a vibrant, sustainable future. We aim to continue serving all New Zealanders with our unique mix of local content, trusted news, thrilling sporting moments, and top-notch entertainment.”
TVNZ reported an underlying operational earnings (EBIT) loss of $28.5 million and a net loss after tax (NPAT) of $85 million from the previous period, highlighting the challenges faced.
