03 October 2025

The Media Council’s decision to uphold a complaint against the Rotorua Daily Post over theories published in its Mona Blades cold-case feature sets a worrying precedent that could deter legitimate reporting on historic investigations, says Jillaine Heather, Chief Executive of the Free Speech Union.

“Cold cases are squarely in the public interest. When journalists clearly label unproven theories, provide context, and offer a right of reply, we should trust readers to judge for themselves. The minority of Media Council members who disagreed with the decision were in the right.

“The Free Speech Union calls on the Media Council to issue a practice note clarifying how newsrooms can responsibly report historic investigative theories — including criteria around naming, context boxes, and right-of-reply protocols — so that accuracy is protected without chilling routine journalism.

“The answer to disputed reporting is more context and more voices, not censorship. We must protect the public’s right to see competing perspectives, rather than shielding them from uncomfortable theories. We urge the Council to back robust standards and resist gatekeeping that limits journalists.

“Rather than limiting the media’s ability to report details, the Media Council Chair and the Rotorua Daily Post should focus on constructive steps like guidance for future coverage, an open explainer on the paper’s editorial judgments, and opportunities for counter-speech from affected parties.

“Authorities should not keep the public in the dark.”

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