Story perspectives

TVNZ Host Paul Henry Resigns Over Racist Delhi Remarks

7/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Paul Henry resigned from TVNZ after his remarks about Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit were called racist.
He mispronounced Dikshit’s surname, called it ‘appropriate because she’s Indian,’ and laughed.
India’s foreign ministry summoned New Zealand’s high commissioner and called the comments bigoted.
The New Zealand government apologized, with Prime Minister John Key calling the episode sad and regrettable.
TVNZ chief executive Rick Ellis said the remarks split the community and harmed international relations.

1 of 1

Story summary

Paul Henry resigned from TVNZ after his remarks about Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit were called racist.
He mispronounced Dikshit’s surname, called it ‘appropriate because she’s Indian,’ and laughed.
India’s foreign ministry summoned New Zealand’s high commissioner and called the comments bigoted.
The New Zealand government apologized, with Prime Minister John Key calling the episode sad and regrettable.
TVNZ chief executive Rick Ellis said the remarks split the community and harmed international relations.