Maiki Sherman, TVNZ political editor, is set to be suspended for five days from covering Parliament. The suspension follows a complaint from the National Party regarding her alleged aggressive behavior during an interview attempt.
The Speaker of Parliament, Gerry Brownlee, will announce the decision. The suspension takes effect from Friday, May 1, 2026. This action stems from an alleged breach of longstanding press gallery rules.
The National Party filed an official complaint against TVNZ about Sherman’s conduct. She allegedly used a homophobic slur directed at journalist Lloyd Burr during a social event. Finance Minister Nicola Willis confirmed that the incident occurred in her office last May.
TVNZ has responded by threatening legal action against Newstalk ZB regarding inquiries into the incident involving Sherman. Mike Hosking reported that TVNZ’s threat aimed to protect their journalist’s integrity.
Key facts:
- Maiki Sherman is facing a five-day suspension.
- The National Party lodged a complaint against her.
- The incident involved an alleged homophobic slur directed at Lloyd Burr.
Gerry Brownlee stated, “The matters relating to gallery behaviour and that of the TVNZ political editor last week are being considered in a process long agreed by the gallery.” This statement underscores the seriousness of the allegations.
In 2011, then-Speaker Lockwood Smith removed parliamentary access cards from NZ Herald political staff for 10 days due to similar breaches of standing orders. This history highlights the importance of maintaining decorum within the press gallery.
As this situation unfolds, it raises questions about media conduct and accountability in New Zealand’s political landscape. The implications of Sherman’s suspension could resonate beyond her immediate case.
