Sky Network Confirms Three-Year Deal Bringing New Zealand Open to Free Television Audience
Sky Network Television has secured broadcast rights for the New Zealand Open through 2029, the deal ensures the upcoming tournament at Millbrook Resort airs freely on Sky Open. This marks a major shift for the February 2026 event, organizers aim to reach wider local audiences by removing subscription barriers.
Evolution of Sports Access Signals Shift in Strategy
New Zealand sports fans have historically faced paywalls for premium content, access to major events often required costly subscriptions. Sky Network Television is now adjusting its strategy following the rebranding of Prime to Sky Open in 2023. The broadcaster aims to balance exclusive rights with broader public reach, this reflects a changing media landscape where accessibility drives engagement. The New Zealand Open began in 1907, it stands as the premier golf event in the country. Millbrook Resort has hosted since 2017, the venue holds a contract through 2032 to ensure stability for the tournament. This new agreement builds upon years of partnership, it represents a crucial step in modernizing how national sports reach the public.
Agreement Secures Comprehensive Coverage for Queenstown Tournament
The confirmed three-year partnership solidifies Sky as the exclusive domestic broadcaster, the deal begins with the 105th New Zealand Open. Action tees off on February 26, 2026, the event concludes on March 1 in Queenstown. Viewers can expect four hours of live coverage daily, this will simulcast on both the subscription-based Sky Sport and the free-to-air Sky Open channel. This dual approach removes financial barriers for local fans, it ensures the national open is available to every household with a television.
Global Distribution and Production Details
Production company NEP will collaborate with Sky to deliver the broadcast feed, they plan to capture extensive footage from the scenic alpine venue. International interest remains high for the event, the tournament features a $2 million NZD prize purse. Global distribution partners include the Golf Channel in the United States and Fox Sports in Australia, the feed reaches more than 90 countries total. This extensive network ensures the Pro-Am format receives worldwide attention, it highlights both professional talent and the unique regional landscape to millions of potential visitors.
Expanded Reach Promises Growth for Local Golf Community
Removing the paywall barrier immediately benefits casual sports fans across the nation. Organizers expect this move to boost viewership numbers significantly, higher ratings often attract stronger sponsorship investment from partners like SBS Bank. Increased visibility serves the goals of the New Zealand Open Charitable Trust, the group seeks to inspire youth participation. Exposure on free television helps grassroots development, it connects a new generation of players to the sport.
Officials urge fans to tune in for the historic broadcast in early 2026. This partnership sets a new standard for sports accessibility, it promises to elevate the profile of New Zealand golf on the global stage for years to come.
