Mike Smith
Here is a complete guide to TVNZ+, the free streaming home for New Zealand viewers, including how the platform works, what you can watch, technical features, device support, and user policies.
What is TVNZ+?
TVNZ+ is New Zealand’s free online streaming service provided by Television New Zealand. It offers on-demand access to local and international shows, movies, documentaries, reality series, news programs, children’s content, and live TV from TVNZ channels. TVNZ+ is ad-supported, available at no cost, and does not offer subscription tiers.
Where is TVNZ+ available?
TVNZ+ is available to viewers located in New Zealand. Due to content rights, streaming is restricted to devices accessing the internet from within New Zealand.
How much does TVNZ+ cost?
TVNZ+ is completely free. You do not need to pay a subscription fee, and there are no premium unlocks or paid upgrades. Advertisements help support the service rather than viewer payments. All titles, including exclusive streaming premieres, can be accessed for free with a valid account.
Do I need an account to watch TVNZ+?
Yes. A free TVNZ+ account is required to stream content. Once logged in, the account lets you:
- Continue watching across different devices
- Save favourite shows or movies
- Receive personalised recommendations
- Link your account to smart TVs and streaming devices
The account only requires basic user information to set up and does not require payment details at any time.
Does TVNZ+ include ads?
Yes. TVNZ+ uses advertisements to support free streaming. Ad breaks appears before or during programs. Unlike paid streaming services, ads cannot be removed, skipped, or limited with a paid upgrade, because TVNZ+ does not offer a paid subscription model.
What content is available on TVNZ+?
TVNZ+ offers a large mix of content categories, including:
- New Zealand scripted series, reality TV, lifestyle shows, and documentaries
- International dramas, comedies, reality programs, and entertainment
- News and current affairs programs from TVNZ
- A dedicated children’s section with age-group filtering
- Exclusive content released online before or without TV broadcast
- Live TV channels such as TVNZ 1, TVNZ 2, and other TVNZ pop-up streams when rights allow
Does TVNZ+ livestream channels?
Yes. TVNZ+ offers live streaming of major TVNZ channels, including news and sports, allowing viewers to watch programming in real time.
What devices support TVNZ+?
TVNZ+ is compatible with a wide range of devices. Below is a simplified support table:
| Device Category | Supported Examples |
|---|---|
| Smart TVs | Compatible Samsung, LG, Hisense, TCL, Sony models with the TVNZ+ app or Freeview-enabled operating systems |
| Streaming Devices | Apple TV, Chromecast devices, Google TV, supported Android TV boxes, Fetch TV, Freeview-certified boxes, some operator TV boxes |
| Mobile & Tablets | iPhone, iPad, Android phones, Android tablets using the TVNZ+ app |
| Computers | Windows PCs and Mac computers using desktop web browsers |
| Game Consoles | Some modern consoles with a supported TV browser or app (varies by model and updates) |
How do I sign up and start watching TVNZ+?
To start streaming:
- Visit the TVNZ+ website or download the app on your device.
- Create a free account with an email address and a password.
- If watching on a smart TV or streaming box, link your TV by following the on-screen code instructions through a phone or computer.
- Once logged in, browse or search for a program and begin streaming.
You will stay logged in on devices until you choose to sign out, reset the app, or clear device data.
Does TVNZ+ allow offline downloads?
No. TVNZ+ does not currently offer offline downloads. All content must be streamed with an active internet connection. This is mainly due to licensing conditions and platform design limitations.
What video quality does TVNZ+ offer?
TVNZ+ uses adaptive streaming. This means the platform automatically adjusts quality based on internet speed and device capability. Most programs are offered in standard definition or high definition. Stable broadband or strong Wi-Fi is recommended for consistent HD playback. Data saving modes on some devices may lower quality to reduce data consumption.
Why do programs expire or disappear from TVNZ+?
TVNZ+ acquires streaming rights for limited time periods. When the rights for a show or movie expire, the title must be removed. In many cases, expiry dates are displayed in the program info page before they disappear. Some titles may also return later if rights are renewed.
How do I fix buffering or playback issues?
Try the following steps:
- Check Wi-Fi or broadband stability
- Restart the app or refresh the browser
- Update the TVNZ+ app to the latest version
- Log out and back into your account
- Turn off VPNs, proxies, or data-saving web extensions
- Clear app cache or browser cookies
- Try a different device to determine if the issue is device-specific
If problems continue, reinstalling the app or updating device software often resolves persistent issues.
How can I contact TVNZ+ support?
You can use the help section within the app or website. There you can submit a support request, get troubleshooting steps, or find device-specific setup instructions. Support typically includes guidance on streaming quality, account issues, linking devices, and accessibility.
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