TVNZ Signs Long-Term Deal for BBC Planet Franchise

BBC Studios and TVNZ in New Zealand have entered into a long-term partnership for the BBC Planet franchise.

Per the multiyear deal, TVNZ in New Zealand will premiere five landmark series from the producers and distributors of the BBC’s Natural History programming, including the forthcoming Sir David Attenborough-narrated Perfect Planet. The agreement between BBC Studios and TVNZ guarantees TVNZ the New Zealand premiere rights for the five BBC Planet franchise titles and one other, still to be announced.

The BBC Planet titles included in this deal are Seven Worlds, One Planet, Green Planet, Frozen Planet II and Planet Earth III, produced by BBC Studios Natural History Unit; and Perfect Planet, produced by Silverback Films for the BBC. TVNZ has already premiered a number of BBC Natural History landmark titles, including Dynasties, Serengeti and Blue Planet II, and is currently airing Seven Worlds, One Planet.

Deb Tod, head of content sales and co-productions for BBC Studios ANZ, said: “TVNZ has been a great supporter of our premium landmark Natural Histories for a number of years and we’re thrilled to partner with them for the BBC Planet franchise. This long-term partnership will deliver ground-breaking factual programming and unmissable event television that will strongly resonate with New Zealand audiences.”

Cate Slater, TVNZ’s director of content, said: “BBC’s Planet franchise is landmark programming and we’re excited to bring these series to New Zealand viewers. In a time of unprecedented environmental change, these series give us a greater understanding and appreciation of our natural world—and never has that been more important.”