New Zealand Media Market Size and Forecast by Media Channel, Content Type, Revenue Model, Consumer Type, and Device Type: 2019-2033

New Zealand Media Market Growth and Performance

• The New Zealand media market saw a XX.5% increase in 2024 reaching a value of USD XX.40 billion.
• This market in New Zealand is projected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX.3% from 2025 to 2033, resulting in a forecasted market value of USD XX.08 billion by the end of 2033.

New Zealand Media Industry Outlook

A Digitally Inclusive and Culture-Driven Industry

The New Zealand media market reached an estimated USD XX billion in 2023, supported by an impressive 93.5% internet penetration, 87% smartphone ownership, and 58% smart TV usage. As connectivity widens across rural regions, media access is evolving beyond urban centres, fueled by a growing appetite for digital, on-the-go, and mobile-first content consumption. The New Zealand media industry ecosystem is now marked by innovation in storytelling, technology adoption, and grassroots cultural expression.

The surge in mobile media consumption, paired with rural inclusion initiatives, is enabling broadcasters and digital platforms to design hyper-local and accessible content models. New Zealand’s hybrid media environment—where free-to-air TV coexists with OTT and community-led media—reflects a digitally inclusive and culturally sensitive approach that other nations are beginning to emulate.

Paid Users, Disposable Income & Export Value: Economic Fuel for the Sector

With approximately 3.6 million OTT subscriptions in 2023, the New Zealand media sector reflects high digital engagement. The average ARPU sits around USD 6 (NZD 10/month), driven by local content value and affordable pricing structures. A disposable income level of USD 21,000 (NZD 35,000) enables moderate subscription uptake, though rural users exhibit stronger price sensitivity, necessitating value-centric and freemium content bundles.

Media exports, largely from films and documentaries, contribute around USD XX million to the national economy. Global recognition of Kiwi storytelling—particularly in environmental documentaries and indigenous narratives—has enhanced international collaboration. This export vitality underpins national media resilience and spotlights New Zealand’s soft power in cultural diplomacy.

Preferred Media Channels

On average, New Zealanders spend 6.1 hours daily on media, favoring free-to-air TV, OTT, radio, and growing demand for Maori language content. Platforms like TVNZ+, Neon, and Netflix NZ have carved unique niches—TVNZ+ thrives with youth-oriented drama, while Neon’s bundled offerings with HBO and sports content appeal to multigenerational viewers.

Culturally, rugby broadcasts, local news, and indie New Zealand films rank among top-viewed content. The popularity of Maori-language and bicultural storytelling is not only reshaping viewer tastes but also redefining national identity through the lens of media.

The Rise of Public Platforms, Digital Creators, and Influencer-Led Discovery

Among popular platforms, TVNZ+ leads with 1.9 million subscribers, followed by Netflix NZ (2M), Neon (900K), and Stuff.co.nz (1.2M) for digital news. Notably, New Zealand is witnessing a creative explosion in Maori digital storytelling and short-form content via TikTok and YouTube. A youthful demographic—27% aged 15–34—is driving this demand.

Monthly individual spend on media ranges between USD 15–25, reflecting moderate discretionary usage, particularly on creator-led and subscription-based platforms. Creators are not just content generators—they are influencers, critics, and collaborators—empowering niche genres, amplifying diverse voices, and reshaping marketing ecosystems.

Consumer Trends and Rural Price Sensitivity

Consumer preferences show a strong affinity for community-rooted narratives, ad-free experiences, and multi-device accessibility. While urban users are more willing to pay for quality, rural audiences demand more value per dollar, often opting for freemium or ad-supported models. In response, platforms are evolving from premium-first models to more hybrid pricing strategies, combining ads, micro-subscriptions, and cross-platform bundles.

Trust in local content and media brands remains high, particularly when content reflects lived realities and supports local cultures. The trend toward value-driven consumption is likely to shape future investment strategies across both public and private broadcasters. Also, the New Zealand government, through NZ On Air, plays a critical role by funding diverse and underserved voices, ensuring equitable access to storytelling platforms. The Maori Media Sector Shift Strategy, focused on digitalization and global reach, is a significant enabler of indigenous media.

Key industry players are taking distinct approaches:

• TVNZ has doubled down on youth-centric drama via a freemium model, capturing Gen Z loyalty.
• Sky NZ (Neon) continues bundling sports and premium content for cross-generational appeal.
• Whakaata Maori has prioritized Maori-led programming with a global footprint—serving as both a cultural bridge and digital innovation hub.

*Research Methodology: This report is based on DataCube’s proprietary 3-stage forecasting model, combining primary research, secondary data triangulation, and expert validation. [Learn more]

New Zealand Media Market Scope