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Court Rules Batchelor's Comments Racist, Upholds TVNZ's Reporting

3/24/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The court ruled that Julian Batchelor's comments were racist and defamatory regarding TVNZ's 2023 article labeling his 'stop co-governance' pamphlet as dangerous speech and racist rhetoric.
The defense of truth was upheld.
The court found Dr. Sanjana Hattotuwa's remarks to be expert opinions and TVNZ acted responsibly in reporting the story.
It was revealed that Batchelor's legal costs were funded by Jim Grenon, a director of NZME.

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Story summary

The court ruled that Julian Batchelor's comments were racist and defamatory regarding TVNZ's 2023 article labeling his 'stop co-governance' pamphlet as dangerous speech and racist rhetoric.
The defense of truth was upheld.
The court found Dr. Sanjana Hattotuwa's remarks to be expert opinions and TVNZ acted responsibly in reporting the story.
It was revealed that Batchelor's legal costs were funded by Jim Grenon, a director of NZME.