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Source: ONE News
TVNZ is to launch a Plus One channel on the frequency now occupied by TVNZ 7, from July.
The new channel will be an exact duplicate of TV ONE, broadcast an hour later.
TVNZ says changing viewer habits demand greater flexibility and time-shifted channels are now an internationally-established method of delivering programmes - especially with News and Current Affairs.
The company says long working hours, shift work and traffic problems have impacted on the numbers of viewers able to watch the evening news in its traditional time slot, and there is now a global trend towards time-shifting.
Acting Chief Executive, Rodney Parker, says a Plus One channel aligns with TVNZs strategy of reaching more New Zealanders on more screens.
"TV ONE has been selected as the time-shifted channel to maximise exposure for the great local content, news and current affairs that it features, says Parker.
He said the decision to broadcast a free to air Plus One channel was made after a careful look at other commercially viable options.
We believe that this is a desirable and appropriate use of the frequency that offers an additional opportunity for viewers, particularly those without PVRs, to fit their individual circumstances, said Parker.
The new channel will begin broadcasting at 7am on July 1 and will be offered on Freeview.