Microsoft will release the Xbox 360 HD DVD Player in New Zealand on 29 March.

The player plugs into the Xbox 360, and the HD DVD format upscales DVDs to enhance their picture quality.

Since its launch in North America late last year, Microsoft says the Xbox 360 HD DVD player has sold "very well" and already boasts a remarkable early attach rate for a console accessory. HD DVD is supported by studios including Universal, Paramount and Warner.

Joanna White, Marketing Director for Universal Pictures, says, “The launch of the Xbox 360 HD DVD Player is a very important step for HD DVD and is sure to bring the format to a wide and enthusiastic audience. Universal is dedicated to supporting both the HD DVD format and the Xbox 360 HD DVD Player and we look forward to a terrific long-term partnership with Microsoft.”

Releasing at $250, the Xbox 360 HD DVD player comes with the Universal Pictures blockbuster film Peter Jackson’s King Kong on HD DVD and its own remote control unit. More than 40 HD DVD films are expected to be on shelves by the end of March, including The Bourne Supremacy, Serenity, Miami Vice, Superman Returns, The Departed and Mission Impossible 3.