Freeview NZ to offer High Definition TV

Freeview is the new Free to Air digital television service that provides clearer pictures, sharper sound and a better choice of programmes than current analogue technology. While the Freeview Satellite service is already available to all New Zealander’s, the wait has been on for the launch of the Freeview HD Digital Terrestrial Service set to go live in April.

Branded Freeview HD, the Freeview Terrestrial service will offer crystal clear digital picture with the added bonus of some programmes being broadcast in High Definition. High Definition TV gives viewers the highest quality picture available, together with surround sound. Freeview HD will be available in nine major centres (Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Napier, Hastings, Palmerston North, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin). The first high-definition programming from TVNZ is likely to be coverage of the Beijing Olympic Games, which will be broadcast in HD during August and September

Viewers will need an HD-ready TV set and a Freeview DTT set top box to receive the HD broadcasts. Freeview DTT set top boxes will be available to buy online from http://www.freeviewshop.co.nz