Television History Set To Be Made

Media Release

01/02/08

Television history is set to be made as New Zealand’s first High Definition outside broadcasting truck prepares to begin operations.

The vehicle, which has been bought and will be operated by Auckland-based company On Site Broadcasting, was designed and constructed by Sony.

It will officially be put to use on Tuesday 5 February when the Black Caps take on England in the Twenty 20 Cricket Cup tournament match at Eden Park.

Tony Parton, manager of the Sony Business Solutions division, says Sony is very proud to have designed & built On Site Broadcasting’s flagship live production facility.

“From the stadium to the living room, Sony HD technology will help create a new level of emotional connection for fans watching major sporting events,” he says.

“Live HD broadcasts by On Site Broadcasting will allow those who are unable to attend live events to view and experience them in a more vibrant and life-like way at home.”

Ray Standidge, general manager of On Site Broadcasting, says the introduction of High Definition broadcasting to New Zealand is a technological milestone.

He says having access to the technology will help ensure New Zealand stays up to speed with the Australian, American and European markets, all of which already broadcast in High Definition.
“It’s fantastic On Site Broadcasting is able to provide the country’s television industry with the technical infrastructure it needs to now stay at the forefront of international standards,” says Mr Standidge.

Set to be the first in a number of High Definition broadcasting vehicles to operate in New Zealand, 2008 will see High Definition technology become accessible nationwide from July onwards.

Sky Television was the first to announce its plans to offer a High Definition broadcasting service.

Other networks such as TVNZ and MediaWorks have since announced they will also.

In September last year TVNZ announced its plans to broadcast the 2008 Beijing Olympics in High Definition.

Although some people will need to upgrade their television sets in order to view High Definition broadcasts, those who have purchased LCD or Plasma televisions over the last year or two are likely to already be equipped with the technology required.

ENDS.

A note to journalists:

‘High Definition’ has been written in caps as it is most often referred to as ‘HD’. Please feel free to correct this if you wish.

About Sony:
Sony manufactures audio, video, communications and information technology products for the global consumer and professional markets. Sony New Zealand Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Corporation, is responsible for the company’s electronics business in New Zealand.

About Sony Business Solutions:

Sony designs, builds and supports fully integrated solutions across a number of industries, including Broadcast for the capture, storage and distribution of audiovisual assets. These services are delivered to a wide range of media and corporate organisations throughout the world, including New Zealand.

ends

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