TVNZ confirms sale of Avalon studios

TVNZ confirms sale of Avalon studios

April 5 (BusinessDesk) – Television New Zealand Ltd. is to sell its 36 year-old production facilities at Avalon, Lower Hutt, virtually completing the state broadcaster’s shift of all production facilities to Auckland.

“TVNZ will exit and sell Avalon after June 2013, when existing contracts with key customers come up for renewal,” said TVNZ chief executive Rick Ellis.

The broadcaster had already sold the tower block and land where the studios are located in 2003, so the sale will only cover the remaining four purpose-built television studios and high definition control room, along with set design and build workshops, wardrobe, make-up and green rooms.

The last regularly produced TVNZ sow at Avalon, the “Good Morning” magazine-style show will shift to Auckland and other uses, including third party rent for TV and film production, will be sought after December this year.

TVNZ was in early discussions with local and international interests, said Ellis. Use of the studios by third parties could enhance its potential for sale.

The Avalon Studios complex and 10-storey office tower became a Hutt Valley landmark after opening in 1975 as New Zealand's first custom-built television centre.

TVNZ's move to Auckland began in 1980, when its news service went north.

The tower block and some land on the Avalon site were sold in 2003.

“Up to 12 full-time equivalent positions (will be made) redundant and a number of contract positions affected as a result of the move. Whether or not there are further redundancies leading up to June 2013 will depend on the future use of Avalon.”

(BusinessDesk)

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