Members act on NZ First Foundation Name Suppression case

Two members of chambers were recently involved in the high profile dispute over name suppression for one of the people charged by the Serious Fraud Office with fraud (obtaining by deception) following its investigation into donations made to the New Zealand First Foundation. John Dixon QC represented the Serious Fraud Office, who opposed the continued name suppression.  Robert Stewart represented five media companies, including Mediaworks, TVNZ, NZME, Stuff and Radio New Zealand, who also opposed the name suppression.  

The defendant argued that publication of his name would result in extreme hardship to him, his family and his business interests.  

The District Court dismissed the application for continued name suppression.  The defendant has now appealed to the High Court.

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