5^th February 2026 – Hyundai New Zealand has announced the continuation of its long-standing partnership with Hyundai Country Calendar, as the iconic programme celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2026. The much-loved series returns to TVNZ on Sunday 8 February 2026, marking 16 years of partnership between Hyundai and one of New Zealand’s most treasured television shows.

First airing in 1966, Hyundai Country Calendar is the longest-running programme on New Zealand television and remains one of the most watched. For six decades, Kiwis have tuned in week after week to connect with authentic stories of real people shaping rural New Zealand.

Since becoming naming sponsor in 2011, the partnership between Hyundai New Zealand and TVNZ has gone from strength to strength, underpinned by shared values of community, resilience and a commitment to telling uniquely New Zealand stories.

“As a 100% kiwi-owned business, we’re proud to reinvest right here in New Zealand,” says Hyundai New Zealand GM, Leighton Agnew. “Hyundai Country Calendar is as quintessentially New Zealand as it gets. Reaching 60 years is an incredible milestone for the show, and we’re immensely proud to celebrate our 16th year in partnership. It’s a partnership that reflects our passion for locally produced content, rural New Zealand, and the people who help make this country what it is.”

Hyundai Country Calendar producer Dan Henry says the longevity of the partnership is something to celebrate. “Long-term programme partnerships like this are incredibly rare. Having the unwavering support of Hyundai New Zealand for 16 years has played a significant role in the show’s success, and it’s fantastic to mark the programme’s 60th anniversary alongside such a committed partner.”

TVNZ’s Head of Agency, Karl Laurence-Anderson adds, “Country Calendar is a cornerstone of TVNZ’s local content, and Hyundai New Zealand has been an instrumental partner for more than a decade and a half. Together, we’ve helped ensure the show continues to thrive and resonate with audiences across generations. We’re proud to celebrate this milestone year and look forward to what’s ahead.”

The 2026 season of Hyundai Country Calendar premieres on TVNZ 1 and TVNZ+ on Sunday 8 February at 7pm, made with the support of NZ On Air.

For more information, visit www.hyundaicountry.co.nz.