For New Zealand audiences, a Netflix acquisition of Warner Bros would result in a bundling of content into a bigger library, and also increased costs specific to the local market. A merger might raise subscription costs and reduce opportunities for New Zealand's screen industry. The sale of Warner Bros could weaken the traditional cinema market, reduce film production and concentrate creative power under one streaming giant. If Netflix controls 43% of the global streaming market, content will be designed for broad appeal rather than for diverse voices and stories. On the other hand, the New Zealand screen industry was built with a “No 8 wire” mentality and has proved resilient, adaptable and innovative.

Source: New Zealand Herald December 29, 2025 09:24 UTC