National Geographic Channel has this week launched a dynamic new on-air look to capture attention and better connect with viewers with Australia and New Zealand getting the first glimpses.

The simple, eye-catching new graphics are accompanied by the tagline This Is Who We Are.

The refresh is complemented by a series of new idents that highlight top television moments - from undercover footage revealing environmental crimes to weird practices such as drinking cow urine for medicinal purposes.

Karin Simoncini, managing director of Fox International Channels in Australia and New Zealand, said the new look is all about putting exclusive National Geographic footage on centre stage.

"We really want people to see these events that make you stop and say 'whoa',” she said. “With this campaign we're injecting colour, energy and boldness into our overall look to make it a truly entertaining destination.”

Australia and New Zealand are the first places in the world to launch the new look, which will roll out to the rest of the world this season.