As mobile gaming rapidly expands across the Asia-Pacific region, broadcasters are increasingly seeing it not as a threat but as a powerful engagement model. In New Zealand, where mobile connectivity and streaming usage rank among the highest globally, the merging of broadcasting and interactive gaming is transforming audience entertainment experiences.
The past decade has witnessed major shifts in entertainment. Streaming was just the starting point. New formats like esports broadcasts and short-form videos now redefine content consumption and audience focus.
New Zealand stands out due to its ultra-fast mobile networks and high smartphone adoption, illustrating how digital media and interactive entertainment integrate seamlessly.
In New Zealand, mobile gaming and entertainment streaming have shifted consumer habits toward portable devices. According to Statista, mobile penetration in the country surpassed 94% in 2024.
The Interactive Games and Entertainment Association (IGEA) reported that consumer sales for local video games for the 2024 financial year were NZ$587 million.
This convergence highlights the evolving media landscape where broadcasting adapts to engage audiences through interactive, mobile-first experiences.
Author's summary: Mobile gaming and broadcasting merge in New Zealand, where high mobile adoption reshapes entertainment consumption, illustrating future media trends across the Asia-Pacific.