Digital TV uses a digital signal to receive TV broadcasts. A digital signal delivers better picture and sound quality than the old analogue network, as well as offering more channels and a range of new services like on screen TV guides.
New Zealand is going digital in stages and by the end of 2013 we'll all be watching digital TV, with the old analogue system being switched off.
Digital TV is already available nationwide so you can go digital right now. If you watch TV on Freeview, IGLOO or SKY then you've already made the switch to digital.
However, if you're not using one of those services to watch TV at the moment, you may need some new equipment to be able to watch TV after your region has switched to digital.
All the equipment you need to watch freeview digital TV is sold here at Harvey Norman. Most New Zealand homes have the option of watching digital TV in HD using a UHF aerial. If you live in an area without this option, you'll need a satellite service to receive digital TV.
Digital TV is already available nationwide so you can go digital right now. New Zealand is switching to digital in stages and by the end of 2013 the entire country will be watching digital TV. The map below illustrates the switchover dates for different regions. After this date you will only be able to watch digital TV as the analogue system will be switched off.
You don't need a new TV to go digital but depending on how you are watching TV at the moment, you may need some new equipment. If you aren't watching TV through Freeview, Sky or IGLOO, then you will need a set-top box with either a UHF aerial or satellite dish.
If you have purchased a new TV recently or are looking to purchase, many TVs now come with built in Freeview. This means that if you have a UHF aerial, you're ready to go digital with your new TV. Visit your local Harvey Norman store and check with one of our friendly sales staff who can help find the best solution for all your going digital requirements.
All of the equipment you need to go digital is sold right here at Harvey Norman. Everything from a new TV with built in Freeview UHF, to Freeview satellite set-top boxes, as well as IGLOO and Sky TV paid services, we offer the full solution whatever your needs may be.
Harvey Norman recommends digital TV through the services pictured above. Almost any TV can be made digital with a set-top box from one of the above providers. These set-top boxes plug into the back of your TV and connect to either an aerial or a satellite dish.
Also, nearly all new TVs come with Freeview built in, meaning you can go digital straight away by plugging them into an aerial. See your local Harvey Norman store for a range of Freeview approved TV’s and speak to one of the friendly sales staff about your requirements and they will be able to provide you with the best solution.
If you're looking for more information about switching to digital TV, you can check out the Going Digital page at
They have detailed information regarding regional digital switchover dates, as well as frequently asked questions such as how to dispose of old TV sets and information about setting up your equipment for digital TV.
Other things to think about when going digital are how you record TV as well as how many TVs are in your house. Your recorder will need to go digital as well and each TV in the house will need a digital receiver.
For answers to all these questions and any others you may have, visit your local Harvey Norman store and chat with one of their friendly sales staff about your going digital needs. With everything from UHF aerials and set-top boxes to IGLOO and new TVs with built in Freeview, they have a solution for whatever you require.