langi27:
Technically you might be right, TVNZ might be a partner and they are paying for the right to be a partner.
From public view point, I don't see that. I see it as Spark wanting a backup plan, they are dipping there toes and they want to deliver a solid product. Spark know majority of NZ still watch freeview and would be outraged if it was solely online.
TVNZ are a short term solution nothing more.
From many threads here, people hate Sky as while it has neat 100% coverage many cannot afford it. Many hate streaming as its too hard for many, they want the Sky remote back. That's why there is a FTA partner, and for backup. In any case, TVNZ needs its share of revenue, as its a partner, no matter why they are a partner