The ACC FAQ

Got questions about The ACC? We’ve got answers!

1. What is the Alternative Commentary Collective (ACC)?

NZ’s leading sport entertainment platform by sport fans, for sport fans.

What began in 2013 as an alternative commentary for the summer of cricket, The ACC is now a multi-sport, multi-platform behemoth, gathering a group of likeminded broadcasters, comedians and entertainers who love sport and bring a new and unique style of sport coverage.

2. Why is it called the Alternative Commentary Collective (ACC)?

The Alternative Commentary Collective (ACC) was founded as a humorous alternative to traditional sports broadcasting. What began as a side project during a New Zealand cricket summer offered a looser, more irreverent style of commentary that contrasted with conventional sports coverage. Broadcasting from a caravan and embracing a distinctly Kiwi sense of humour, the ACC quickly built a following and evolved into one of New Zealand's most popular sports media brands.

3. How can I listen to the ACC live?

You can listen to The Alternative Commentary Collective (The ACC) live and on demand via online or the iHeartRadio app. You can also tune in on Radio Hauraki during live simulcasts, watch ACC video streams on YouTube, or catch ACC podcasts on your preferred podcast platform.

4. Can I watch the ACC online?

Yes. The ACC produces a range of video content, including live shows, highlights, interviews, and special events, which can be viewed on the ACC's YouTube channel and digital platforms.

5. Is the ACC free?

Yes. The ACC radio broadcasts, podcasts, videos, and most online content are available free of charge.

Check out the free iheart app here!

6. Are there any live events?

Yes, The Alternative Commentary Collective (The ACC) regularly hosts and participates in live events across New Zealand. These range from live shows and sports quizzes to pre-game fan events and stadium activations.

Some of their regular events and activations include:

  • Live broadcasts and quiz nights: The ACC frequently hosts pub quizzes, live podcasts, and special broadcasts in cities around New Zealand.
  • Pre-game parties: Ahead of major sporting fixtures, such as All Blacks Tests and Warriors matches, The ACC often runs fan events featuring special guests, entertainment, and food and drink offers.
  • Stadium takeovers: The ACC occasionally organises dedicated fan zones and supporter sections at major sporting venues, delivering its signature alternative commentary and match-day experience.

The ACC's live events have closely followed the locations of major New Zealand sporting fixtures:

  • Auckland – Home to Eden Park, New Zealand's largest stadium, which hosts many All Blacks tests, Black Caps internationals, and other marquee events.

  • Wellington – Chosen for events around matches at Sky Stadium, particularly All Blacks and international cricket fixtures.

  • Christchurch – Selected when major rugby or cricket internationals are played at Apollo Projects Stadium or Hagley Oval, and now One NZ Stadium

  • Hamilton – Used for events around matches at FMG Stadium Waikato and Seddon Park, both regular hosts of international rugby and cricket.

  • Dunedin – Tied to fixtures at Forsyth Barr Stadium, especially All Blacks and Super Rugby matches.

  • Tauranga – Occasionally hosts ACC events when the Black Clash or other cricket events are held at Bay Oval in nearby Mount Maunganui.

  • Napier – Chosen for international cricket at McLean Park, particularly Black Caps matches.

  • Sydney – Used when large numbers of New Zealand fans travel for events such as NRL Grand Finals or Bledisloe Cup matches, allowing the ACC to host fan events alongside the games.

Overall, the pattern is that the ACC almost always schedules live shows where there is:

  1. A major sporting event already bringing thousands of fans together.

  2. A venue capable of hosting a live podcast or pre-match show.

  3. A strong local audience or travelling fan base that makes the event commercially viable.

For information on upcoming events and tickets, visit The ACC's Live Events page.

7. What sports does the ACC cover?

The ACC covers a wide range of sports, including:

  • Cricket
  • Rugby
  • Rugby League
  • Football
  • Golf
  • Motorsport
  • Major international sporting tournaments
  • Other significant New Zealand and international sporting events

8. Who are the ACC commentators?

The ACC features a range of broadcasters, comedians, sports journalists, and former athletes who provide commentary, analysis, and entertainment across ACC programming.

The recurring ACC team includes regular voices such as Matt Heath, Chris Key, Jeremy Wells, Dylan Cleaver, and Mike Lane, along with other frequent contributors who join across radio, podcasts, and live sports coverage. Together, they deliver a mix of humour, analysis, and chaos across major sporting events throughout the year.

You can hear the ACC across Hauraki, as well as on their podcasts and digital platforms.

9. What is the ACCurate Syncer?

The ACCurate Syncer is a Chrome extension that helps listeners synchronise ACC commentary with delayed television broadcasts, allowing the audio and video to match up more accurately.

Download "The ACCurate Syncer" Chrome Extension HERE!

10. How do I use the ACCurate Syncer?

Install the ACCurate Syncer Chrome Extension and follow the setup instructions to align the ACC audio stream with your television or streaming broadcast.

11. Does the ACC cover international sporting events?

Yes. The ACC regularly provides coverage and commentary for major international sporting events involving New Zealand teams and athletes, as well as other significant global sporting competitions.

12. Where can I find the latest ACC content?

The latest ACC podcasts, videos, articles, and live broadcasts can be found on the ACC website, YouTube channel, Radio Hauraki, and the iHeartRadio app.

13. How can I stay updated with ACC broadcasts?

Follow the ACC on social media and check The ACC website for upcoming broadcast schedules, event coverage, and new content releases.

Check out our socials below!

14. Why is the ACC so popular in New Zealand?

The ACC has built a strong following through its unique blend of sports commentary, humour, fan engagement, and coverage of major sporting moments that resonate with New Zealand audiences.

15. Does the ACC only cover New Zealand sport?

No. While the ACC has a strong focus on New Zealand teams and athletes, it also covers international sporting events, competitions, and stories from around the world.

16. What is an ACC Insider?

ACC Insiders receive exclusive ACC news, event updates, pre-sale ticket codes, special offers, and other announcements via email. Joining is free and only takes a few minutes.

Become an ACC insider here!

17. What podcasts do you have?

The Alternative Commentary Collective (ACC) in New Zealand produces several popular sports and comedy podcasts

The Agenda: The Agenda is the official podcast of The Alternative Commentary Collective and the home of sporting nonsense and claptrap! Featuring all the major talking points from the world of sports, urban dictionary and more. Your #2 favourite sports podcast! Brought to you by Export Ultra - The Beer For Here!

The BYC Podcast: The BYC is New Zealand's most celebrated and feared specialty cricket podcast. Join Paul Ford, Dylan Cleaver and a range of dubious guests for those unmistakable sounds and smells of summer. Join us for such cutting-edge debates as "What's sexier, a well-oiled Duncan Fearnley Magnum or a Polyarmoured Slazenger V12?"

Mad Monday: The Alternative Commentary Collective presents… Mad Monday – Your #1 NRL Podcast featuring Manaia Stewart and Izaak Selesele! Brought to you by Four 'N Twenty Pies!

Boys Get Paid: A sports betting and lifestyle podcast covering racing, punting, and tipping.

 

18. Where can I find ACC podcasts?

ACC podcasts are available on iHeartRadio and most major podcast platforms. Popular shows cover sports news, match analysis, interviews, and commentary from ACC personalities.

19. Do you do competitions like other radio stations? 

Yes, ACC frequently runs sports-related giveaways, tipping competitions, and promotional contests across New Zealand. Fans can easily participate to win prizes such as bonus bets, tickets to major matches, and exclusive merchandise. 

Where to Find & Enter ACC Competitions

  • The ACC WIN Page: This is the direct hub on the official platform where all current giveaways, radio contests, and partner promotions are listed.
  • Social Media: The ACC frequently hosts quick, engaging competitions (like match-picking or score-guessing) via The ACC Instagram and The ACC Facebook in partnership with the TAB. 
  • Podcast & Radio Promos: Listeners of our live radio commentaries (such as Super Rugby Pacific) and podcasts on iHeartRadio are often prompted with specific codes or keywords to text in to win

20. Can I purchase The Alternative Commentary Collective hats?

Yes! You can get your hands on official Alternative Commentary Collective gear through our online shop. We’ve got a range of fan favourites available, including the iconic Steady the Ship hats, Black Flaps, and “Believe in the Leave” tees, along with other limited drops and merch.

Whether you're backing your favourite moments from The ACC or just want to rep the crew, there’s something for every fan.

Check out the full collection here: The ACC Shop

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