Watchdog finds decision by Prime Minister's Office about official information request 'unreasonable'

An independent watchdog has found a decision by the Prime Minister's Office regarding an official information request was "unreasonable".

Chief Ombudsman John Allen is recommending the Prime Minister review the decision and decide whether to make further relevant information available.

The request was made in March 2025 and sought information regarding a case between climate activist Mike Smith and major emitters.

As part of the investigation following a complaint, the Ombudsman's office consulted with the former Beehive staffer who received the lobbying document.

Allen found the use of a personal email address particularly concerning, and found it surprising the former staffer had no recollection of what he did with the lobbying document.

ELI said it received "only limited material" in response.

It came after RNZ reported in May that a previously undisclosed briefing document had been provided to the Prime Minister's office by Fonterra and Z Energy.

Christopher Luxon's office said at the time it had no record of the document that had since come to light following a court order, but reminded Ministerial Services of their obligations.

It was later revealed the document was emailed to a private account, which Luxon said did not meet his expectations.

More to come...