- Watch The Contenders '26 for free on TVNZ+ (N.Z.)
- Outside New Zealand? Use NordVPN to unblock TVNZ+ now
- Episodes 1, 2, 3 & 4 available now
What better way to get the feels and build up to the FIFA World Cup 2026 than a 40-episode countdown highlighting each team? The Contenders ’26 by TVNZ offers viewers the ultimate preview of the tournament.
Expect extensive coverage of all 48 competing teams, the key players to watch, and in-depth analysis backed by expert commentary and contextual storytelling. The series also features archival footage and interviews with football analysts, all aimed at giving viewers a deep dive into each team’s strengths, the favorites heading into the tournament, and the potential spoilers who could shake things up.
Each episode runs around 25 minutes, making The Contenders ’26 a quick and engaging watch. But, how do you watch the free stream if you're in Australia, the UK or the US? Don't worry, we've got you covered; here’s how to watch The Contenders '26 on TVNZ+ for free from anywhere in the world.
How to watch The Contenders '26 on TVNZ+ for free
How to watch The Contenders '26 on TVNZ+ from anywhere
TVNZ+ is the only place you will be able to stream The Contenders '26 for FREE.
Those traveling or working outside New Zealand will need to use a VPN to access TVNZ+.
There are lots of VPNs, but NordVPN is the one you can rely on to unblock TVNZ+ and watch from anywhere in the world.
It's super simple to use a VPN to watch The Contenders '26 on TVNZ+.
1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.
2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're visiting the UK and want to watch your free TVNZ+ stream, you'd select 'New Zealand'.
3. Sit back and enjoy the action. Head to TVNZ+, sign in, and watch The Contenders '26 for free.
Can I watch The Contenders '26 in the US?
Yes – The Contenders '26 is available on Starzplay
Can I watch The Contenders '26 in the UK?
Yes – but it seems to be restricted to Vodafone Play on Facebook.
Can I watch Contenders 26 in Canada or Australia?
The rest of the world seems to be missing out. Currently you can only watch The Contenders '26 in Canada, or Australia with a good VPN. This will remove the geoblock on TVNZ+, should be a Kiwi abroad.
But watch this space; we'll update you as soon as there's any information on international broadcasts.
What devices is TVNZ+ available on?
- Amazon Fire TV (Fire Stick 3rd Gen, Fire Stick 4K Max)
- Android (Mobile & Tablet) – Android 8.0 and above
- Android TV (OS 5.1 and above; includes SmartVU, TCL, Sony, Philips,Toshiba, Freeview-approved TVs)
- Apple TV (4th Gen & 4K, tvOS 13 or later)
- Chromecast (from mobile devices, iOS 12+ and Android 8+)
- Google Chrome (Desktop browser, latest version)
- Hisense Smart TVs (2020+ models running VIDAA U6)
- LG Smart TVs (webOS 3.3+)
- Microsoft Edge (Desktop browser, latest version)
- Mozilla Firefox (Desktop browser, latest version)
- Panasonic Smart TVs (2017+ models: ES/EX, FS/FX, FZ, GX/GZ, HX/HZ, JS/JX/JZ, LZ series)
- PlayStation (PS4 and PS5)
- Safari (Mac browser, latest version)
- Samsung Smart TVs (2015 and above running Tizen OS)
- Sky Box and Sky Pod (new models)
- Sony Smart TVs (Android TV OS 5.1+)
- Xbox (Xbox One, Series X, Series S)
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We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
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