Full Breakdown
Alleged Homophobic Slur by TVNZ Political Editor Maiki Sherman at Finance Minister’s Office Sparks Controversy
4/28/2026, 8:31:44 AM
Core Incident: Alleged Slur During Press-Gallery Function
Finance Minister Nicola Willis hosted a press-gallery gathering in her office ahead of the previous year’s budget. During the event, TVNZ political editor Maiki Sherman is alleged to have used a homophobic slur aimed at former Three AM host Lloyd Burr. Willis heard the language, ended the function, and later checked on the reporter’s welfare.
Background and Context
Journalists were invited to discuss the upcoming budget, and attendees were reported to be drinking. Burr, a former Three AM co-host, was present. Sherman’s role at TVNZ involves political reporting, placing the incident under media-industry scrutiny.
Official Statements & Responses
Willis confirmed she hosted the function, described the offensive language, and said she respected the reporter’s decision not to pursue the matter. Stuff Group expressed confidence in Burr’s account and declined further comment. TVNZ said it would not comment on employment matters and urged complaints be directed to the Speaker of the House.
Criticism & Opposition
National MP Simeon Brown accused TVNZ staff of breaching parliamentary rules by confronting party whip Stuart Smith in a restricted corridor and pressuring him about Breakfast coverage. He called the conduct “unacceptable” and a “clear breach of parliament’s rules,” stressing media standards.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Substack commentator Ani O’Brien reported the slur was a response to a remark by Burr, a claim both Sherman and Stuff deny. The factual dispute remains unresolved, and no public record of a TVNZ internal investigation or board briefing has emerged. Inquiries about a legal letter to NZME also lack answers.
Impact and Significance
The episode raises concerns about workplace harassment, media ethics, and handling of offensive language. It has intensified scrutiny of TVNZ’s editorial practices, prompted a National Party complaint, and coincided with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s decision to withdraw from Breakfast, affecting the broadcaster’s political interview platform.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I was out of the room for a few minutes and returned to hear offensive language being used.” — Nicola Willis, Finance Minister
- “Stuff said in a statement: “Stuff Group stands by, and has complete faith in, Lloyd Burr’s account of the events and his conduct in Minister Willis’ office last May.” — Stuff Group
- “We do not comment on employment matters,” — TVNZ spokeswoman
- “ Brown said the behaviour of TVNZ was “unacceptable and a clear breach of parliament’s rules”.” — Simeon Brown, National MP
What’s Next
TVNZ has not disclosed whether its board has been briefed or if an internal review is underway. The National Party urges the Speaker of the House to address alleged parliamentary breaches, while media outlets seek clarification on the legal letter to NZME.
