The Death of Television as you know it

We’re witnessing a revolution in our daily lives with the shift towards digital and online services. Many of these changes enhance our experiences, like online banking replacing physical branches and supermarkets embracing self-service checkouts.

While not everyone is thrilled with these changes, they often bring significant benefits. Now, another Kiwi staple is set to evolve: television.

Television first entered our homes on June 1, 1960, forever transforming home entertainment. It evolved further with the introduction of color TVs in 1973 and Sky Television’s satellite service in 1990 with a satellite dish installed and a set top box. Today, the next big leap is here with internet-based TV.

With the rise of fibre internet, broadcasters are focusing on delivering content online. This includes platforms like TVNZ+, Three Live, Freeview, Sky Go, Sky Now, and Netflix. Internet-based TV offers far more channels and programs, many of which are free to air.

Maintaining multiple delivery platforms is costly for broadcasters, so the future of television will become internet-only. This means the TV antenna on your roof will soon be obsolete. TVNZ has confirmed they are “well on its way to being fully digital”, planning to go fully digital with all programs available only through streaming internet.

You’ll still have access to the same channels, plus new ones, but only through an internet-connected TV or via a website or mobile app. Many of the younger generation already watch TV this way. However, you’ll need an internet-enabled TV, making the old cabling to aerials or dishes redundant within about five years.

internet tv digital tv streaming

For free advice and guidance on your options and timelines, contact us at AB Electrical. We’re experts in installing internet-based TVs and connecting them to your internet service, as well as removing outdated cabling.

We understand our customers might have questions about how these changes will affect their viewing experience, and we’re here to help. We aim to make this transition simple and ensure you continue enjoying your favourite programs without interruption.

death of television

For more information, feel free to reach out to us:
AB Electrical (Howard or Clynt) Phone: 0800 688 244
Email: office@abelectrical.co.nz

Further articles can be found at

  1. The TV antenna on your roof is becoming obsolete – 1 Newshttps://www.1news.co.nz/2024/07/08/internet-only-sunset-for-broadcast-tv-on-cards-but-timing-unclear/
  2. Traditional TV – an uncertain future – NZ Herald https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/traditional-tv-broadcasting-faces-uncertain-future-briefing-document-to-media-and-communications-minister-melissa-lee/EOFHTSSVG5AJXN7KJYU4MNLADA/ 
  3. Streaming television developments – Consumer NZ
    https://www.consumer.org.nz/articles/tv-streaming-in-2023-what-s-new