March 6, 2026

TVNZ posts $2.4m half-year profit 

rear view of relaxed family watching tv on sofa in the living room.
Photo source: Getty Images

TVNZ reported a $2.4 million net profit for the last six months and plans to distribute a $1.6 million dividend to the Crown.

Chief executive Jodi O’Donnell noted that the six-month performance demonstrates resilience and a strong emphasis on core operations amid a challenging advertising market.

“We’ve stayed focused on delivering exceptional content that connects with audiences – from New Zealand’s most watched programme, 1News at Six, to heritage favourite Country Calendar, special format You, Me & The Economy, new local entertainment The Chase NZ and must-watch sport like the Black Caps and White Ferns cricket.”

The broadcaster’s digital advertising segment posted robust growth, with digital now comprising over 30% of total ad revenue.

According to O’Donnell, the company strengthened its digital platform in October 2025 by launching New Zealand’s inaugural co-viewing measurement tool.

With over 70% of TVNZ+ viewing on connected TVs, the tool gives advertisers deeper insights into shared viewing, expanding beyond individual logged-in profiles to reveal the complete audience picture.

O’Donnell said the blend of audience data and targeting capabilities presents a strong value proposition for advertisers.

“We can now tell the difference between someone streaming alone and a household watching together, which means we see the true scale of our digital audience.”

“Layer on our Activate products – which let advertisers target audiences as specific as dog owners in Grey Lynn or SUV shoppers in Christchurch – and the result is a powerful advertising platform for Kiwi businesses.”

O’Donnell said TVNZ remains on track for a stronger performance in the second half of the year.

“2026 will be a defining year for TVNZ. We’re investing now to ensure TVNZ is the place New Zealanders choose first for the news, entertainment and sport they love.”

“That comes with planned short-term costs, but we’re confident in the long-term value these changes will create for New Zealand audiences and advertisers.”

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