As the Rio Olympics begin, New Zealanders will be reminded again they do not have the same right as other countries to free-to-air live broadcasting of major sporting events, says New Zealand First.

'Instead we are expected to pay twice, once through our taxes and again through paid television to see our athletes participate and shine on a world stage – some New Zealanders just won't get that chance,” says New Zealand First Sports and Recreation Spokesperson Clayton Mitchell.

'Another young generation will miss the opportunity to be inspired by the grit and determination of our top athletes as they perform on a world stage.

'Prime are screening the Rio Games from 11pm to 3pm daily but it is not clear how much of this will be live coverage.

'In Australia, Channel Seven has exclusive rights to the games and will be streaming some 900 hours of free-to-air coverage because of laws that ensure any Australian should be able to see an event of national importance.

'The BBC will be bringing its citizens more than 3000 hours of live sporting action from Rio 2016.

'Canada too, will have as many as 23 free live-streaming channels on a dedicated app for mobile users as well as coverage across their public broadcaster.

'We are falling behind these other countries and this is why New Zealand First has a bill waiting for introduction to Parliament to require free live coverage of significant sports events,” Mr Mitchell says.

Source: New Zealand First.