AWARENESS OF GOING DIGITAL RISES IN WELLINGTON
Awareness of the digital TV switchover has leapt in Wellington, according to the findings of a national survey today.

The number of homes in Wellington aware of the upcoming switch from analogue TV to digital TV has increased from 15% to 36%.

The research, which has been commissioned by Going Digital, part of the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, also reveals that more than 7 out of 10 homes in Wellington have already gone digital.

Wellington’s analogue TV system will be switched off in September 2013, as part of a phased national approach beginning in the West Coast and Hawke’s Bay in September 2012.

It is being replaced with digital services that will give viewers better reception and sound quality, as well as more channels and features such as onscreen TV guides.

Greg Harford, Going Digital national manager, said there had been significant interest from residents keen to go digital.

“Digital TV is already available in Wellington so I am encouraging those viewers who want to enjoy the benefits to make the switch now.

“Going Digital means better reception and sound quality and more channels, as well as extra benefits like onscreen TV guides.

“Almost any television can go digital, so people don’t need a new TV, but they may need some new equipment to keep watching TV once the analogue system is turned off.”

People who watch Sky, TelstraClear or Freeview are already receiving a digital signal, so they don’t need to do anything.

Other viewers will need to buy a set-top box and either an aerial or satellite dish depending on what equipment they currently have and where they live.

Going Digital will be running a comprehensive public information campaign to make sure people know everything they need to know about the switchover to digital television.

Information about going digital is available on the website http://www.goingdigital.co.nz/ or by contacting the going digital helpline on 0800 838 800.