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Chapman Tripp is pleased to have acted as legal advisor to Sky Network Television Limited (Sky) on its acquisition of 100% of the shares in Discovery NZ Limited (Discovery NZ) from Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific Pte Ltd, a subsidiary of Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.
Discovery NZ is the owner and operator of television channels and platforms Three, ThreeNow, eden, Rush and HGTV.
This strategic acquisition represents a significant step for Sky, bringing together two of New Zealand’s leading media brands. The deal positions Sky to scale its operations and further diversify its revenue streams - particularly across advertising and digital platforms. It is a forward-looking development that expands Sky’s capability to reach audiences, including through broadcast video on demand platform ThreeNow, and free-to-access linear channels.
Sky Chief Executive Officer Sophie Moloney said, "This acquisition represents a key step forward as we broaden our capabilities. We appreciate Chapman Tripp's expertise and support throughout this process. Their legal guidance has been crucial in completing this deal, positioning Sky for future growth."
The Chapman Tripp team was led by partners Rachel Dunne and Philip Ascroft, and included partners Kelly McFadzien, Graeme Olding and Vonda Engels, senior associates Stephanie Gray and Tanzam Hossain, senior solicitor Ella Knoester and solicitor Bill Caldwell. Chapman Tripp provided comprehensive legal advice to Sky throughout the transaction, working collaboratively with Sky’s General Counsel Kirstin Jones.
“We are proud to have supported Sky on this transformative deal that will create valuable opportunities for Sky and its audiences,” said Rachel Dunne. “This transaction highlights Chapman Tripp’s expertise in complex mergers and acquisitions, as well as our commitment to supporting clients through industry-shaping deals in New Zealand.”
