Peters v Bennett - [2020] 2 NZLR 699

Tort — Privacy — Reasonable expectation that information be kept private — Unauthorised disclosure to media of information concerning payment irregularity to MP in respect of New Zealand Superannuation — Whether Crown disclosures only made to parties having genuine need to know or proper interest in knowing — Evidence failed to identify person who disclosed private information — res ipsa loquitur not applicable — Privacy Act 1993.

Constitutional law — “No Surprises” policy — Whether Crown disclosures only made to parties having genuine need to know or proper interest in knowing — Circumstances where disclosure to ministers appropriate — Importance of current controversy involving another MP.