Netball fans across the country can look forward to a thrilling return to the court in 2026 with the domestic ANZ Premiership competition to be shown exclusively on TVNZ platforms.
Beginning in April, the 2026 season will feature 30 round robin matches played over 12 weeks by six domestic teams, followed by two finals matches.
Games will air on weekends, including new rule innovations such as the captain’s timeout and two-point shot continuing.
In an announcement today, Netball New Zealand and TVNZ revealed the new partnership would bring the domestic netball season to screens nationwide via TVNZ 2 and TVNZ+.
Building on the match-of-the-week offering this year, the expanded broadcast would offer TVNZ’s expert commentary, in-depth analysis, and exclusive courtside access a key feature of the expanded partnership.
TVNZ chief executive Jodi O’Donnell told 1News the deal marked a major step for live and free sport with hopes for a long-term partnership.
“It’s been really great that TVNZ has been able to work with Netball New Zealand over the last two years with having a match of the week, and I think that’s been really good to showcase the power of free-to-air.”
Asked whether TVNZ had paid for the rights to the netball, O’Donnell said that information was “commercially sensitive” but emphasised the strong audience response.
“We’ve had over half a million New Zealanders watching our netball games already this year so I think, from an audience perspective, I say New Zealand audiences are in for a treat.”
Netball NZ chief executive Jennie Wyllie welcomed the return of netball to free-to-air television, describing it as a “fantastic outcome” for fans.
“Following a season where we’ve seen, strong broadcast numbers, fantastic match attendances and unprecedented global viewership, it’s exciting to now have the opportunity for even more New Zealanders to enjoy the game on TVNZ 2 and TVNZ+.
“Netball is played and loved by hundreds of thousands across Aotearoa, and this move will help bring the sport closer to communities nationwide.”
TVNZ head of sports, events and partnerships Melodie Robinson said netball was one of the country’s most popular codes and the broadcaster was “excited” to have the rights to the national domestic competition.
“Our netballers are at the top of their game, they’re powerful wāhine toa, and we’re thrilled to be connecting tamariki with the heroes who inspire them, bringing the excitement straight into their homes each weekend.”
