Talley’s vs TVNZ: Is This NZ’s Biggest Free Speech Fight?

A high-profile defamation battle between Talley’s and TVNZ has reignited debate about corporate power, media freedom and who truly defends free speech in New Zealand.

Talley’s Appeals Defamation Decision

Talley’s appeals decision in defamation case with TVNZ, parties to return to court

Food manufacturing company Talley’s is appealing the decision of the High Court in its 2025 defamation case with TVNZ, who say they will “respond strongly” again.

NZ Stuff

Where Is The Free Speech Union?

To paraphrase the great Blazing Saddles, Mongo no Understand.

I can’t find any statement by the Free Speech Union on the appalling abuse of power Talley’s is causing TVNZ with their embarrassing defamation claim.

Isn’t it funny how right wing free speech champions go so quiet when it comes to corporate power and Israel?

Corporate Power Versus Fourth Estate Journalism

The biggest Free Speech issue in NZ right now is Talley’s continued attack of TVNZ using baseless defamation claims on journalism that was doing its fourth estate duties by scrutinising Talley’s appalling abuse of workers!

This is TVNZ Journalism at its best!

Abuse Of Process Or Legitimate Legal Action?

Talley’s has a well known anti-Union perspective that borders on McCarthyism, their abuse of process to silence critics is appallingly oppressive and Talley’s should be called out for it yet the Free Speech Union are silent?

Free speech debates often focus on universities and protestors. But when corporate power meets investigative journalism, the stakes are higher — and the silence louder. Whether this case strengthens or chills media scrutiny may echo well beyond the courtroom.