TVNZ partners with Bebo to offer access to social networking and digital media content

TVNZ and Bebo have announced an exclusive partnership which will offer advertisers access to a combined audience of over 1.5 million New Zealanders, and Bebo users access to TVNZ premium content.

Bebo has chosen TVNZ as its exclusive partner for selling display and video advertising in New Zealand. This is TVNZ's first agreement of its kind with a social networking site.

TVNZ Chief Executive Rick Ellis says the partnership is a significant example of the broadcaster's commercial flexibility and willingness to enter strategic partnerships.

"This collaboration brings together the country's largest broadcaster and largest website. Through our channels and online services - TVNZ ondemand and tvnz.co.nz - and Bebo's market prominence, advertisers will have an exceptional opportunity for greater reach and efficiency. This partnership will mean that we can offer a one stop shop - making it easier to run campaigns and reach consumers."

TVNZ says Bebo has the largest number of page views of any website in New Zealand and has more than doubled its online audience in the past year. It also holds the top position in the New Zealand social networking market.

Bebo's General Manager Australia and NZ, Francisco Cordero, says the partnership with TVNZ is an important development in Bebo's presence in New Zealand.

"This partnership enables advertisers to connect with consumers in a place where they interact with friends and consume media and entertainment. It also delivers premium content to Bebo's users including TVNZ's news, current affairs and entertainment, while allowing us to benefit from TVNZ's scale, experienced sales force, advertiser relationships and industry leading technology capabilities."