[Republished with permission by the NZ Herald] — For evidence that certain public agencies love to believe they’re not answerable to their owners – us, the public – Media Insider presents exhibit one, Niwa.

The climate agency’s corporate office has steadfastly refused to comment on earlier Herald inquiries about its work and relationship with MetService. There are major concerns about the way the two agencies interact, especially during major weather events such as Cyclone Gabrielle.

This week, Niwa was not only late in responding to an Official Information Act request from the Herald – “due to staff availability” – but it is also refusing to release its internal communications and advice around the Herald media inquiries, on the grounds of “free and frank expression of opinions”.

Hmmm – we wonder what on earth they’ve been saying about the pesky media.

The Herald will be appealing this decision to the Ombudsman.

• Written by Shayne Currie, NZ Herald Editor-at-large.