NPC returns to TVNZ, All Blacks sign with Sky TV

August 26, 2025

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Starting in 2026, rugby fans in New Zealand will be able to watch provincial rugby free on TVNZ.

The broadcaster has signed a multi-year deal with New Zealand Rugby to show the National Provincial Championship (NPC), the Farah Palmer Cup, and the Heartland Championship. Matches will be streamed on TVNZ+ and some will also be shown live on TVNZ 1.

This marks rugby’s return to TVNZ after 30 years. TVNZ chief executive Jodi O’Donnell said she was proud to bring the sport back, explaining that provincial rugby is part of New Zealand’s sporting DNA. The deal means fans can enjoy round-robin and playoff games starting July 2026.

Melodie Robinson, TVNZ’s head of sports and a former Black Fern, called it a “major win” for rugby supporters. She said showing the games free-to-air will inspire future players and unite communities around the country.

Meanwhile, Sky TV will keep its rights to major competitions such as Super Rugby Pacific, Super Rugby Aupiki, and international matches. Sky has signed a new five-year deal with New Zealand Rugby that runs until 2030.

This deal includes All Blacks games in the Rugby Championship, the Bledisloe Cup, future tours against South Africa, and the 2029 British and Irish Lions tour. Sky will also show more Black Ferns matches than in the past.

Article written by Milli Banbury

This article was written using AI as an assistive tool for research and writing.

Learning Options

Recall Questions

Thinking questions

Digital Thinking

Learning Options

Recall Questions

Thinking questions

Digital Thinking

A Year 8 student council asked students how they used technology at school. The results showed that most students used devices for research, typing up work, and checking information. A smaller number used them for games during breaks, but that was not their main purpose. Many students said they preferred devices when they needed to organise ideas quickly or find reliable facts.

The council used the survey to suggest better internet access and more charging stations around the school. They also reminded students that technology should support learning, not distract from it. The survey showed that devices are helpful when they are used with a clear purpose.

What is the main idea of the passage?

Most students prefer devices because they are faster than books. Year 8 students use devices mostly for games during breaks. Technology is most useful when students use it for learning with a clear purpose. The student council wants more charging stations around the school.