Must-see TV in November: What’s coming to TVNZ

The powerful new Jonah Lomu documentary is coming to TVNZ 1 in November.

The free-to-air premiere of the powerful new Jonah Lomu documentary, a final election debate and results coverage, returns for Love It or List It NZ and Jamie Oliver – and two cult classics from yesteryear.

Lomu

(November 15, TVNZ 1)

An intimate and heartfelt character study about legendary All Black Jonah Lomu, tracing his Tongan upbringing, meteoric rise to fame and the complicated personal and health battles he faced at the pinnacle of world rugby. With unprecedented access to his family and archives, the documentary goes deeper than ever before. 

Love It or List It NZ

(November 1, TVNZ 1 and TVNZ+)

 Returning for season 2, Love It or List It NZ follows Kiwi homeowners facing a major crossroads: transform the home they have, or find somewhere new. Interior designer and The Block NZ winner Alex Walls is determined to help them fall back in love with their home, while former actor, now real estate agent Paul Glover believes the perfect property could be waiting just around the corner.

1 News: Your Vote 2026 election coverage

The Q+A People’s Debate

(November 5, 7pm on TVNZ 1 and TVNZ+)

Jack Tame puts New Zealanders’ questions directly to all the main political parties’ representatives. The 1News team will be hitting the streets with cameras to ask people for questions. We’ll be putting calls out on social media for people to send video questions in. And if you click here it'll take you to a form that you can fill out to let us know what you want answered

1News: Your Vote 2026 Election Night Special

(November 7, from 7pm on TVNZ 1 and TVNZ+)

Jack Tame and Tova O’Brien lead TVNZ’s election night coverage, joined by insiders Paul Henry and Willie Jackson and a panel of experts from across the political spectrum to deliver real-time analysis, reaction and insight as the results come in.

 The Morning After

(November 8 from 7.30am on TVNZ1)

Tagata Pasifika kicks off the day’s political round-up, followed by a two-hour Q+A special at 8am with Jack Tame. He’ll break down the post-election developments and interview those in line to form the next government. Then from 10am, Marae will focus on what the election results mean for Māori.

Dead Ahead returns to TVNZ+ with six new episodes.

Dead Ahead

(November 3, TVNZ+)

Dead Ahead returns with six new episodes packed with sharp humour, deep emotion and rising tension, as the Wharekoa whānau grapple with the consequences of the choices that brought them home. This season, Kiri (Miriama Smith) is forced to confront the consequences of her actions and undo the damage before she pays the ultimate price. As her secrets begin to unravel, she must finally tell the truth and hope those closest to her can forgive her. 

Jamie’s Feasts for Less

(November 12, TVNZ 1 and TVNZ+)

Jamie Oliver proves that eating well doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag in this new series. Sharing simple recipes, money-saving tips and creative ways to make the most of everyday ingredients, he serves up affordable feasts that deliver big on flavour.

Desperate Housewives

(From November 8, TVNZ+)

Return to Wisteria Lane - all eight seasons of the acclaimed American mystery-comedy-drama series following the lives of a group of women as seen through the eyes of their friend and neighbour who takes her own life in the first episode. The women work through domestic struggles and family life, while being faced with the secrets, crimes, and mysteries hidden behind the doors of their superficially perfect suburban neighbourhood.

Desperate Housewives is coming to TVNZ+ from November 8.

Xena: Warrior Princess

(From November 1, TVNZ+)

A cult classic starring Lucy Lawless as a mighty warrior seeking redemption for her dark past. Xena journeys across the ancient world fighting for the greater good alongside her loyal companion Gabrielle. Packed with action, adventure and mythology, the beloved cult series follows the pair as they take on ruthless warlords, powerful gods and unforgettable quests. 

Steve Irwin: A Wild Life

(November 7, TVNZ+)

Marking 20 years since the loss of one of the world's most beloved wildlife conservationists, this documentary explores the remarkable life and legacy of Steve Irwin. Featuring rare footage and exclusive interviews with those closest to him, it offers an intimate look at his passion for wildlife, his groundbreaking conservation work and the lasting impact he continues to have around the world.

The Cage

(November 21, TVNZ+)

Two casino employees secretly stealing from the same safe find themselves caught in a dangerous web of crime, corruption and deception. As debts mount and pressure closes in from both the police and the criminal underworld, they're forced to make impossible choices in a high-stakes game where one wrong move could cost them everything.

Adultery

(November 5, TVNZ 1 and TVNZ+)

 A chance encounter between two single parents ignites a passionate connection that risks tearing apart both of their families. As desire, guilt and responsibility collide, this gripping new drama explores the far-reaching consequences of a relationship that threatens to change their lives forever. Starring Dominic Cooper and Romola Garai.

Sport in November

Melbourne Cup 2026

(November 3, 4.30pm on TVNZ 1 and TVNZ+)

Australia’s most famous horse race returns, bringing all the excitement, tradition and trackside glamour live from Flemington.

All Whites v India

(November 12, 7pm and November 15, on Duke channel and TVNZ+)

Catch both matches as the All Whites return home to take on India in a two-match international series.

 UFC 334

(November 15, TVNZ+ - main card requires a TVNZ Event Pass)

Two title fights headline a stacked card, with Ciryl Gane v Josh Hokit for the heavyweight championship and Kayla Harrison v Amanda Nunes for the women's bantamweight crown.

 T20 Cairns Gold Clash

(November 22, TVNZ 2 and TVNZ+)

Cricket stars and footy legends go head-to-head in a one-off T20 showdown, with Team Cricket taking on Team Footy for inaugural bragging rights.

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