Coliseum picks up rights to biggest golf events

Golf fans in New Zealand will need to subscribe to Coliseum Sports Media's online service if they want to watch golden girl Lydia Ko in action for next year. Photo / Michael Craig.

Kiwi golf fans will need to subscribe to online provider Coliseum Sports Media to catch Lydia Ko on the LPGA Tour next season.

Coliseum announced this morning they have secured the rights to the LPGA Tour, the European Tour, the Ryder Cup, the PGA Championship, the Asian Tour and the EurAsia Cup, in addition to their PGA Tour rights which they took away from Sky recently.

Golf fans will be able to access both services, PGA Tour live and world golf pass, for one subscription; giving them access to all these tournaments, as well as review and highlight shows, live and on-demand. Subscriptions will cost $19.90 a month or $199 for a season pass.

Coliseum Sports Media chief executive Tim Martin said it would give Kiwis a great opportunity to follow a wide range of golf.

"We believe every Kiwi deserves the chance to see our very own Lydia Ko play. An exciting and inspiring young player such as Lydia Ko, combined with an increased accessibility of viewership, has the power to grow the sport amongst new and emerging audiences," Martin said.

"This is an exciting time for golf in New Zealand. This is an exciting time for Kiwi golf fans. And this is what CSM is all about - using the leveller of technology to deliver unlimited access for all who want it. A more direct and deeper relationship between the fan and the sport only means all sports have a greater chance to grow and thrive."

The move has been endorsed by New Zealand Golf chief executive Dean Murphy embraced the change.

"We are excited that New Zealand Golf fans will have access to more golf from the international tours," Murphy said.

"Seeing the world's best players compete on the world stage is a great way to inspire New Zealanders to participate in the sport and we are pleased to see international golf coverage accessible to New Zealand golf fans expanded. Coliseum Sports Media is leading the digital sports movement here in New Zealand and we are delighted to be able to partner with them for the benefit of our affiliated members and clubs."