Sky (New Zealand)
Sky New Zealand Limited, operating as Sky, is a New Zealand entertainment and telecommunications company. It is the country's largest pay television broadcaster and offers a range of services including satellite television, streaming services, and broadband internet.
Overview:
Sky began broadcasting in 1990 and has since grown to become a dominant force in the New Zealand media landscape. The company offers a wide variety of channels covering news, sports, movies, entertainment, and documentaries. Sky also produces and broadcasts local content. Its primary method of delivery is through satellite television subscriptions.
Services:
- Satellite Television: Sky offers a wide range of channels via satellite subscription packages. These packages vary in content and price.
- Streaming Services: Sky provides streaming services, notably Neon and Sky Go, allowing subscribers to access content online and on demand. Neon offers a library of movies and TV shows, while Sky Go allows subscribers to watch live channels and on-demand content included in their Sky subscription on compatible devices.
- Broadband Internet: Sky offers broadband internet services bundled with television subscriptions or as a standalone product.
History:
Sky Television was launched in New Zealand in the early 1990s, initially offering a limited number of channels. Over the years, the company expanded its offerings, acquired competitors, and embraced new technologies like streaming. The company has undergone several rebranding efforts.
Controversies and Criticisms:
Sky has faced criticism regarding pricing, programming choices, and competition within the New Zealand media market. Concerns have been raised about the company's dominance and its impact on the availability and affordability of entertainment options for New Zealand consumers. Competition from international streaming services has also presented challenges to Sky's market share.
Competition:
Sky faces competition from a variety of sources, including free-to-air television channels, international streaming services such as Netflix and Disney+, and other telecommunications companies offering broadband services.