Australian success prompts decision to take TiVo into NZ

Peter Dinham
Friday, 27 March 2009 19:27

IT Industry - Deals

Rogers said TiVo’s successful rollout in Australia had piqued the interest of others in the media industry across the globe and essentially provided a blueprint that outlined how the TiVo value proposition can help protect their competitive position in their own markets.
 
“We are extremely gratified to have TVNZ as a partner and are eager to have Hybrid TV begin making the TiVo service available to New Zealand’s millions of free-to-air TV customers.”
    
TVNZ CEO, Rick Ellis, said the TiVo media device was a global success and the investment in Hybrid Television Services would ensure that its arrival in New Zealand supported TVNZ’s transition to a digital media company.

James Warburton said TiVo had strong Christmas sales and the company had been pleased with the uptake in Australia.
 
“This investment from TVNZ and their involvement on the board of Hybrid Television Services will ensure that the company is well positioned for the New Zealand launch this year.”

Under the deal to take TiVo into New Zealand, executives from Seven Media Group and TVNZ will sit on the board of Hybrid Television Services, with James Warburton as chairman.  Other members of the board include Rick Ellis, Rodney Parker, CFO of TVNZ and Bruce McWilliam, commercial director for Seven Media Group.