Rigg v University of Waikato - [1984] 1 NZLR 149

Education — Universities — Visitor — Jurisdiction — Powers — Exercise of discretion — Natural justice — Bias by predetermination — Bias by interest — Academic freedom of speech — Petitioner had been co-author of an article which inferred that students had died of cancer because of inadequate supervision of a University laboratory and accused the University of a cover-up — University terminated his employment as a Senior Lecturer — Petitioner sought review of University's decision and reinstatement — Whether Visitor should grant the relief sought — Responsibilities which an academic must discharge before he can claim to be acting within the concept of academic freedom of speech discussed — University of Waikato Act 1963, s 5.