As part of the digital switchover process, the government has agreed to help fund the extension of the terrestrial broadcasts of digital television. This will allow more New Zealanders to receive free-to-air high definition digital television through Freeview.
The government is putting $6.3 million into extending the terrestrial network into Wairarapa, Taupo, Whanganui, Taranaki, Nelson, Gisborne, Rotorua, Whangarei, Timaru and Invercargill. This will increase the percentage of households able to receive DTT from the current 75 percent to around 87 percent.
The expanded service is planned to operate in time for the Rugby World Cup (mid 2011). Final details are still being negotiated between the broadcasters and the transmission companies and the work is expected to commence soon.
