Talley's defamation case against TVNZ

The story so far

Food company Talley's began a defamation trial in the Auckland High Court against TVNZ and reporter Thomas Mead, alleging reputational damage and lost income from reports on health and safety concerns.^{15 Sep 2025} TVNZ maintains that its reporting from 2021 to 2022 was truthful and responsible, and that its six stories about the company were accurate and fair.^{15 Sep 2025; 8 Oct 2025} Mead defended his investigation and use of anonymous sources, and faced several days of cross-examination about his sources, interview transcripts and personal messages.^{30 Sep 2025; 1 Oct 2025} Former minister Michael Wood testified about his 2021 claims of serious safety deficiencies at Talley's and was asked whether they rested on written evidence or on union and media reports.^{7 Oct 2025} TVNZ executive editor Phil O'Sullivan defended the broadcaster's editorial standards, including questions about filming private homes and internal communications.^{8 Oct 2025}

Latest

Justice Pheroze Jagose is now considering the case after four weeks of evidence and closing submissions.^{15 Oct 2025}

What's next

A decision is expected before Christmas.^{15 Oct 2025}

Key moments

1. 15 Sep 2025Talley's begins High Court defamation trial against TVNZ and reporter Thomas Mead.
2. 30 Sep 2025Reporter defends his use of anonymous sources during the trial.
3. 7 Oct 2025Former minister Michael Wood questioned on the basis of his 2021 safety claims.
4. 8 Oct 2025TVNZ executive editor defends six stories as accurate and fair.
5. 14 Oct 2025Judge questions independent expert on responsible reporting and media fairness.
6. 15 Oct 2025Justice Jagose considers the case after four weeks of evidence; decision expected before Christmas.

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.