Broadcast
A new cloud-based interchange connects local sports organisations with international audiences, while bringing global content to New Zealand viewers.
Kordia is bringing to market a new cloud-based platform that is revolutionising how New Zealand broadcasters access the global sports content marketplace.
Developed by global media technology provider Arqiva, Arqade operates as a digital storefront. Broadcasters can access international content or distribute their own programming globally.
“Arqade connects content owners, rights-holders, broadcasters and affiliates in one scalable ecosystem. It helps bring international content to local viewers, while supporting our local sports organisations to distribute their content to international audiences,” says Matt Patterson, Head of Sales for Kordia’s Media division.
Alaina Hall, Director of Global Media at Arqiva, describes the system as "a cloud-based content interchange platform that gives customers instant access to thousands of hours of high‑quality content, while enabling content owners to make their libraries easily available and accessible.”
A proven system in New Zealand sports
Arqade has already seen success in New Zealand, with New Zealand Rugby using the platform for their NZR+ content to distribute exclusive content like match highlights and documentaries to international markets.
"We're distributing hundreds of sports events per month. Where we see opportunity, especially in New Zealand, is bringing more sport from international owners down here, and taking exclusive content and bringing it to other markets that are keen to see those on their platform," Hall says.
The platform addresses efficiency challenges facing broadcasters by creating a centralised marketplace that eliminates the need for individual content licensing negotiations. Rather than establishing separate relationships with multiple content owners, broadcasters can access diverse programming through Arqade's unified system.
Helping the media industry adapt to change
With over sixty years of experience in broadcast transmission, Kordia has supported New Zealand’s media industry through several major technology shifts, from the introduction of satellite direct to home transmission, through to the transition from analogue to digital terrestrial broadcasting.
Patterson says over the past two years, Kordia has been actively researching cloud technology solutions that can unlock opportunities for New Zealand media companies and content providers.
“Kordia’s deep technical expertise, coupled with a strong understanding of New Zealand’s media landscape, enables us to support the media industry in navigating a complex and crowded cloud market, helping organisations identify and adopt solutions that are fit for purpose and aligned to the sector’s specific requirements. That’s why we’re excited about this partnership with Arqiva,” Patterson adds.
The partnership emerges as New Zealand's media sector faces significant pressures from declining traditional advertising revenues, changing audience consumption patterns, and technological disruption. These challenges mirror global trends affecting broadcasters worldwide, creating demand for more flexible and cost-effective content distribution solutions.
In New Zealand specifically, Hall describes the collaboration as bringing together "two like-minded companies" with shared broadcast heritage. Kordia provides market relationships and operational excellence while Arqiva contributes global innovation and technical depth.
"We are seeing a shift in viewing habits and that change, along with the way that audiences consume content today, is driving the shift in advertising spend," Hall notes, explaining how these pressures require broadcasters to create efficiencies through smarter use of cloud-based technologies.
Arqade is part of Arqiva's broader suite of broadcast solutions designed to help media organisations adapt to changing market conditions. This specialisation aligns with New Zealand's position as a producer of internationally sought-after sporting content while addressing local demand for diverse sports programming.
Seizing the opportunity
Hall emphasises that successful adaptation requires broadcasters to maintain "a laser focus on viewing experience" because customers now expect broadcast-quality viewing across all platforms, whether traditional television or on streaming services. Arqade supports this goal by ensuring reliable content delivery through Arqiva's established global infrastructure.
For New Zealand broadcasters, Arqiva’s Arqade provides additional content options without requiring significant infrastructure investment. The platform operates alongside existing broadcast systems, rather than replacing them.
Hall's advice to broadcasters considering new technologies is to act fast and experiment: "Don't wait, be curious. The future is now... we need to lead the change in these organisations while starting small, testing things, learning. Then you start to scale with trusted partners."
The future is here
Arqiva’s Arqade represents part of a broader shift toward hybrid delivery models that combine traditional broadcast with cloud and IP-based solutions. This approach allows broadcasters to maintain reliable reach while adding digital flexibility to meet audiences where they consume content.
As New Zealand's media landscape continues evolving, platforms like Arqade offer pathways for local broadcasters to access global content markets while sharing New Zealand's unique sporting and cultural content with international audiences. The partnership between Kordia and Arqiva positions New Zealand broadcasters to participate more effectively in the global content marketplace while maintaining their essential role in serving local communities.