TVNZ was already under fire for the avalanche of advertisements which have interrupted live broadcasts, but are stoutly defending their streaming approach.
Spokesperson Rachel Howard said the high number of Kiwi athletes at the Gold Coast games created difficulties, and the online avenue allowed TVNZ to show entire matches.
"(it) ensured we can show longer sessions without interrupting to cross to other sports during their crunch moments," she told Fairfax.
Because streaming was not possible or utilised by everyone, TVNZ was backing up the online coverage with repeats the following day.
But TVNZ's retort is unlikely to appease fans, who could not understand for instance why Edwards' match was streamed while non-Kiwi or non-medal events were on air instead.
