Sky To Launch Three New Channels

Sky To Launch Three New Channels

SKY Television has announced today that it will launch UKTV, The History Channel and Disney Channel before the end of the year on Start-up, SKY Digital's basic package.

UKTV will combine the best programming from top British broadcasters: the BBC, Fremantle International and Granada, specifically programmed for a New Zealand audience.

The channel will launch on November 1 on SKY digital channel 4 and will offer subscribers a mix of award winning, contemporary and classic UK drama, comedy, variety and mini series programming.

Popular programmes will include Holby City, Peak Practice, Ballykissangel and Parkinson; favourite British soaps like The Bill, Coronation Street and Eastenders; classics like Porridge and Blackadder; as well as a regular Thursday Night mini-series slot.

The History Channel will launch on December 1 on SKY digital channel 53 and will be New Zealand's first television channel dedicated to history 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It will bring the power and passion of the past to life with critically acclaimed documentaries and entertainment specials.

The History Channel is part of a global, award-winning network with access to a vast library of the world's best historical programming via The History Channel International. The channel presents high quality programming from every corner of the globe with programmes as varied as Biography, Modern Marvels, The Cold War, Escape!, Conquest and Fly Past - 100th Anniversary of Flight.

Disney Channel, a market leader in family television will launch on December 24 and will broadcast 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on SKY digital channel 40.

The channel will provide quality entertainment that can be enjoyed by the whole family. It features a wide array of animation series, sitcoms, dramas, and live action features including a favourite of New Zealand audiences, The Wonderful World of Disney. Other top programmes include; Lizzie McGuire, Sabrina, Lilo and Stitch - The Series, as well as blockbuster family movies including Monsters Inc, A Bugs Life and The Emperor's New Groove. SKY Television's Director of Entertainment, Travis Dunbar said, "While SKY is the natural home for live sport and blockbuster movies, we continually look to attract a wider audience. These three superb new channels go a long way to achieving that goal."

"UKTV is a dedicated home for the programming New Zealanders love. The History Channel is a compelling and stimulating channel like no other. Disney Channel is unequalled in quality entertainment that's safe for all the family to view," he said.

Along with these additions Hallmark and CNBC Australia will no longer be broadcast on the SKY digital network.

SKY Television has been advised that Hallmark Channel is no longer available in its current format so it will cease broadcast in New Zealand on October 27.

CNBC has received too little viewership to warrant a contract renewal and therefore will cease broadcasting in New Zealand on November 30.

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