Mr Kirkness and his four staff have been working extended hours to get through the backlog, and the company's phones have also been ringing continuously with people seeking advice.
"We have been busy right through the last couple of years but recently it has been madness."
He said people knew the switch to digital was happening, but some had been caught short.
Mr Kirkness said while digital gave better picture quality, some problems had already begun to surface.
"For those with terrestrial [built-in] aerials, there are a few dead spots where they can't receive a signal, such as in parts of Aramoho.
"They should be able to get a signal, but they're not."
Mr Kirkness said for most people, a television with a terrestrial aerial was the best option, but some would need to use a satellite dish.
Freeview estimates as many as 1000 Wanganui households may be yet to make the switch to digital.
Freeview general manager Sam Irvine, himself a Wanganui-ite, said more than two million Freeview approved units had now been sold nationally, and most households in Wanganui should be able to pick up the Freeview HD signal via a UHF aerial.
He said the most cost-effective way to convert to digital television was with Freeview, which offered more channels, digital quality pictures and sound, and a free eight-day on-screen programme guide, with no monthly fees or contracts once initial set-up is completed.
Win a free receiver
And the Chronicle has a Freeview Dish TV T1000 digital receiver to give away.
If you haven't switched to digital yet, email your name, address and phone numbers to editor@wanganuichronicle.co.nz with the word "digital" in the message field; or send a postcard or envelope with your details to Wanganui Chronicle, 59 Taupo QuayPO Box, 433 Wanganui 4500; or drop it in at our office, adding the word "digital".
One lucky winner will be drawn and will receive a free digital receiver. If the winner is not in a Freeview HD area, we'll send them a satellite digital receiver.
