Tonic Media Network Expands Into New Zealand With Mediboard Acquisition

SECTOR UPDATE - Tonic Media Network

Tonic Media Network, Australia’s largest health and wellbeing media network, has expanded into New Zealand and acquired MediBoard, creating a comprehensive point-of-care media platform that now reaches 8 million patient visits annually across GP clinics, hospitals and diagnostic centres.

The combined network operates across nearly 50%* of GP clinics and all major hospitals throughout New Zealand’s North and South Islands, comprising 700 MediBoards and 125 digital screens. Content plays automatically, is updated centrally, and is produced by a dedicated local content team – with no burden on practice staff.

What it means for practices and patients

Tonic’s screens deliver short-form, evidence-based health content during the time patients are already waiting – an average of 15 minutes** – in a trusted clinical environment. Premium audio-enabled video content is designed to improve health literacy across a wide range of conditions, seasonal health topics, and preventive care messages.

Each hour, practices also receive a dedicated allocation of airtime to promote their own services – from opening hours and doctors currently on duty, to allied health offerings, vaccination programmes and seasonal care plans. It gives practices a simple, always-on channel to keep patients informed and prepared before they even enter the consultation room.

With 61% of viewers taking action and 45% message recall****, the platform is demonstrably effective at reinforcing the kinds of health behaviours GPs are already encouraging in the consultation room.

Content that reflects New Zealand’s communities

Tonic has built content partnerships with organisations including Healthify NZ, Asthma NZ, NZ Herpes Foundation, MetService and the Graeme Dingle Foundation, with a specific commitment to creating and distributing content that resonates with Māori, Pasifika and the many diverse communities across New Zealand.

A launch video series featuring Auckland-based GP Dr Jono Hoogerbrug – focusing on timely and relevant health topics – is now playing on Tonic screens across the country. Messaging can be tailored by region, language or cultural context.

“Tonic was built on a simple but powerful premise: improved health literacy leads to better health outcomes,” said Richard Silverton, CEO of Tonic Media Network. “We’ve proven the model in Australia, and now we’re pursuing that same mission in New Zealand – to improve health outcomes for all New Zealanders.”

Established reach, enhanced by new capability

Tonic’s New Zealand expansion follows its August 2025 launch and the January 2026 acquisition of MediBoard, combining Tonic’s digital out-of-home (DOOH) screen network with MediBoard’s established print and digital infrastructure. MediBoard has long-standing relationships with clinics throughout New Zealand, built on trust and a shared commitment to patient wellbeing.

“MediBoard has built deep trust with clinics and communities throughout New Zealand,” said Paula Mooney, General Manager of MediBoard NZ. “Joining forces with Tonic allows us to enhance that service with world-class content, proven engagement and a mission that we share – improving health outcomes for all New Zealanders.”

Founded in 2013 by physician and medical broadcaster Dr Norman Swan, Tonic reaches over 15 million people each month in Australia*** through more than 6,200 digital and print assets across urban, regional and remote communities.

Source: Tonic Media Network media release

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