MUMBAI: Sky TV and Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific (DNAP) have inked a long-term exclusive partnership for Discovery Networks programming in New Zealand, underscoring a commitment to providing viewers with the most comprehensive entertainment offering in the market.

The multi-year agreement includes the addition of two brand new channels for New Zealand – TLC and Discovery Turbo – which will be available to all Sky’s domestic customers over the next few months as part of the basic subscription package.

DNAP’s current New Zealand portfolio includes localised versions of global brands Discovery Channel and Animal Planet and much-loved local lifestyle channels Food TV and Living Channel. The additions of TLC and Discovery Turbo allows for distribution of an even greater variety of premiere programming that will be embraced by Kiwi audiences.

“Our commitment to driving value for subscription television audiences has been seen through strong investment in high quality and engaging programming, dedicated NZ schedules and local productions. The launch of TLC and Discovery Turbo – together with the recent acquisition of Food TV and Living Channel – increases our local offering and further strengthens our partnership with Sky TV,” said Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific, ANZ & Pac Islands EVP and general manager Mandy Pattinson.

“We have enjoyed a long and successful partnership with Discovery Networks Asia Pacific and today’s announcement is an exciting one as we further cement our partnership. We are proud to have Discovery Channel as a pillar of our basic offering having broadcast the channel since our UHF days in the 90’s.  Now we are able to share six great Discovery Networks channels with all of our domestic customers, each offering the quality content they’re renowned for,” added Sky CEO John Fellet.

Launching on 1 September as part of Sky’s basic package is TLC, the exclusive home of programming from the Oprah Winfrey Network as well as great female factual entertainment programming.