Investigation Discovery to launch in NZ

Discovery factual series Deadliest Catch

Sky and Discovery have renewed their partnership in New Zealand with a multi-year deal that will see Investigation Discovery (ID) launch in the country on the Sky pay TV platform in 2021.

As well as the launch of ID in early 2021, the agreement covers fellow Discovery brands Discovery Channel, TLC, Discovery Turbo, Living, Food Network and Animal Planet.

US true crime channel ID explores the dark side of human nature and will launch down under with shows such as Serial Killer: Devil Unchained, In Pursuit with John Walsh and franchise ID Murder Mystery.

The deal also means Sky will continue to premiere Discovery factual titles including Aussie Gold Hunters, Gold Rush, Deadliest Catch, Fast N’ Loud and annual event Shark Week.

In addition, the deal includes expanded VoD rights for Sky Go, Sky On Demand and Sky SVoD service Neon, making thousands of hours of factual and lifestyle programming available on demand.

It comes after Discovery last week unveiled global streaming service Discovery+, which will roll out in 25 countries in 2021, including in parts of Asia.

Sky New Zealand CEO Sophie Moloney said: “We know our customers love Discovery’s premium programming, and we are delighted to continue our 26-year partnership through a renewed deal that responds to our customers’ needs and the content landscape in New Zealand.”

Rebecca Kent, general manager of Discovery Australia and New Zealand, said: “Reflecting the growing appetite for real crime stories, we also look forward to launching acclaimed true crime channel Investigation Discovery for Sky customers early next year.”