HBO Max Launching in New Zealand

Why It Matters

The entry adds a premium SVOD option to New Zealand’s competitive streaming market, potentially reshaping subscriber dynamics and advertising revenue. It also signals Warner Bros. Discovery’s aggressive global expansion strategy.

Key Takeaways

• HBO Max expands to New Zealand mid‑2026.
• Follows launches in Australia, Germany, Italy, UK, Ireland.
• Offers HBO, Warner Bros., DC, and Max originals.
• Subscription details pending, pricing not disclosed yet.
• WBD expects rapid growth similar to Australian market.

Pulse Analysis

Warner Bros. Discovery’s decision to bring HBO Max to New Zealand reflects a broader push to cement its presence in every major English‑speaking market. After a successful 2025 launch in Australia—where the service quickly became one of the fastest‑growing SVODs—the company is leveraging that momentum to replicate the model across the ANZ region. The timing aligns with a wave of global rollouts, including Germany, Italy, and the imminent UK/Ireland launch, underscoring a coordinated strategy to compete directly with entrenched players like Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video.

New Zealand consumers stand to gain access to a deep library that blends critically acclaimed HBO originals such as "The White Lotus" and "Succession" with Max‑produced titles and Warner Bros. blockbuster films. The inclusion of flagship franchises—DC, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and Game of Thrones—offers a compelling value proposition for both binge‑watchers and casual viewers. In a market where streaming penetration already exceeds 80%, HBO Max’s differentiated content slate could attract cord‑cutters seeking premium, award‑winning storytelling, while also appealing to fans of long‑running series like "Friends" and "The Big Bang Theory."

While pricing and tier structures have yet to be announced, industry analysts expect a tiered model that mirrors the Australian approach, potentially bundling ad‑supported and ad‑free options. If WBD can replicate its Australian subscriber growth—estimated at double‑digit percentages—New Zealand could see a notable shift in market share, prompting competitors to adjust pricing or content strategies. The launch also provides a platform for future local partnerships, possibly integrating regional broadcasters or telecoms, which could further entrench HBO Max as a staple of New Zealand’s digital entertainment ecosystem.

HBO Max launching in New Zealand

February 17, 2026

Warner Bros Discovery (WBD) has announced that HBO Max will launch as a direct‑to‑consumer streaming service in New Zealand, available from mid‑2026.

Following the launch in Australia in 2025, as well as Germany and Italy so far in 2026 and the UK and Ireland scheduled for March, the New Zealand direct‑to‑consumer launch is part of the next wave of HBO Max’s global rollout.

James Gibbons, President of APAC at WBD, commented:

“HBO Max is the home to some of the world’s most‑watched content, including the iconic HBO, Warner Bros. and DC brands we know are hugely popular with New Zealanders. As we continue our global rollout, we are excited to bring more award‑winning stories and franchises directly to fans across Aotearoa in one premium DTC offering.”

Michael Brooks, Managing Director, WBD Australia and New Zealand, added:

“Following our incredible 2025 launch in Australia – one of the fastest‑growing SVODs in Australian history – the entire ANZ team is looking forward to doing it all again with New Zealand later this year. We are well underway with our New Zealand direct‑to‑consumer launch plans and are looking forward to sharing more details in the coming months.”

Further details about subscription tiers, pricing and partners, as well as content and product features will be revealed soon.

HBO Max subscribers can access:

• HBO Originals including A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms (pictured), The Last of Us, House of the Dragon, The White Lotus, Euphoria, Succession and True Detective

• Max Originals such as The Pitt and And Just Like That…

• Warner Bros.’ library of movies, including recent blockbusters and multiple Oscar nominees such as One Battle After Another and Sinners

• Expansive franchises including the DC Universe, Harry Potter, The Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones

• Iconic favourites such as Friends, The Big Bang Theory and Rick and Morty

• Popular factual and lifestyle content like Outback Opal Hunters, Deadliest Catch and 90‑Day Fiancé