19 August 2005
New Online Election Channel Launches
New Zealanders can follow all the campaign action through a new online election channel launching this week.
The comprehensive election channel is being launched on New Zealand’s largest web portal XtraMSN and will provide the
latest campaign news as it happens.
The channel features daily video and audio news coverage, political commentaries and regular reader polls on hot
political issues.
An educational section provides lessons on how MMP works and how electorates are formed, as well as a history of New
Zealand politics, links to the major political parties, election facts and quotes.
On election night the site will track the action as the votes are counted and will present results from across the
country through interactive graphics and maps.
XtraMSN Head of Online Bernard Hickey said the online channel ensures that New Zealanders can access up to the minute
election news throughout the campaign and on election night.
“Political enthusiasts no longer have to wait for scheduled news broadcasts to find out what is happening in the lead up
to the election. Our election team will be putting all the activity online as soon as it happens.
“We are also expecting the site to be a big draw card for Kiwis wanting to follow progress on election night, and we are
anticipating a big jump in traffic to the XtraMSN site on the night,” said Mr Hickey.
Users can also subscribe for election news and results updates to be delivered to their mobile phone.
Visit the site at www.xtramsn.co.nz/elections
ENDS