what world cup matches are free to air in nz

TVNZ has confirmed that 22 FIFA World Cup 2026 matches will be free to air in New Zealand, including every All Whites match , the opening match, and the final.

What’s free

• Every All Whites group-stage match will be live and free on TVNZ 1 and TVNZ+.

• Any further All Whites matches, if they progress, will also be free.

• The opening match, plus selected knockout games, including the final, are part of the free package.

• TVNZ also said an additional 11 matches across the group stage and round of 32 will be free on TVNZ+ only.

All Whites games

The confirmed free-to-air All Whites fixtures are:

• New Zealand vs Iran — 16 June 2026, 1:00 PM NZT.

• New Zealand vs Egypt — 22 June 2026, 1:00 PM NZT.

• New Zealand vs Belgium — 27 June 2026, 3:00 PM NZT.

Watching everything

If you want all 104 matches, TVNZ+ also offers a paid event pass for full tournament access.

Coverage| Free?| Where
---|---|---
All Whites matches| Yes| TVNZ 1 and TVNZ+ 12
Opening match| Yes| TVNZ 1 and TVNZ+ 12
Selected knockout matches, including final| Yes| TVNZ 1 and TVNZ+ 12
Additional group stage / round of 32 matches| Yes| TVNZ+ only 1
Every match in the tournament| No, paid pass required| TVNZ+ event pass 24

TL;DR: in NZ, all All Whites matches are free , plus 21 other World Cup matches for a total of 22 free games.