Ethics, AI & Disclosures Policy.

As a community-focused news platform serving the Taranaki region, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of ethical journalism and digital media practice. Our Code of Ethics aligns with the principles of the New Zealand Media Council, to which we are committed as part of our dedication to responsible journalism.

1. Accuracy, Fairness and Balance

We are bound at all times by accuracy, fairness and balance, and will not deliberately mislead or misinform readers by commission or omission. We verify information before publication and promptly correct any errors. In articles of controversy or disagreement, a fair voice will be given to the opposition view. Exceptions may apply for long-running issues where every side of an issue cannot reasonably be repeated on every occasion, and in reportage of proceedings where balance is to be judged across a number of stories rather than a single report.

2. Privacy

We respect that everyone is normally entitled to privacy of person, space, and personal information. Nevertheless, the right of privacy should not interfere with publication of significant matters of public record or public interest. We exercise particular care and discretion before identifying relatives of persons convicted or accused of crime where the reference to them is not relevant to the matter reported. Those suffering from trauma or grief are given special consideration.

3. Children and Young People

In cases involving children and young people, we require an exceptional degree of public interest to override the interests of the child or young person. We are especially careful with stories that could identify or affect minors, and we prioritise their wellbeing above all other editorial considerations.

4. Comment and Fact

We draw a clear distinction between factual information and comment or opinion. Articles that are essentially comment or opinion are clearly presented as such. Material facts on which an opinion is based must be accurate.

5. Columns, Blogs, Opinion and Letters

Opinion content, whether written columns or blog posts, is clearly identified as such unless the format is widely understood to consist largely of the writer's own opinions. While requirements for a foundation of fact apply, balance is not essential in comment and opinion pieces. Letters for publication are selected at the editor's discretion, guided by fairness, balance, and public interest. Abridgement of letters is acceptable but should not distort meaning.

6. Headlines and Captions

Headlines, sub-headings, and captions accurately and fairly convey the substance or a key element of the report they accompany. We do not use misleading or sensational headlines that misrepresent the content of our stories.

7. Discrimination and Diversity

Issues of gender, religion, minority groups, sexual orientation, age, race, colour, or physical or mental disability are legitimate subjects for discussion where they are relevant and in the public interest. We may report and express opinions in these areas. However, we do not place gratuitous emphasis on any such category in our reporting. We are mindful of cultural sensitivities, particularly regarding Te Ao Māori, and we seek to amplify diverse community voices across the Taranaki region.

8. Confidentiality

We have a strong obligation to protect against disclosure of the identity of confidential sources. We take reasonable steps to satisfy ourselves that such sources are well informed and that the information they provide is reliable. We take care to ensure both the source and the publication agree on what is meant by "off-the-record".

9. Subterfuge

Information or news obtained by subterfuge, misrepresentation, or dishonest means is not permitted unless there is an overriding public interest and the news or information cannot be obtained by any other means.

10. Conflicts of Interest

To fulfil our proper watchdog role, we maintain independence and freedom from obligations to our news sources. We avoid any situations that might compromise such independence. Where a story is enabled by sponsorship, gift, or financial inducement, that relationship is declared. Where an author's link to a subject is deemed to be justified, the relationship of author to subject is declared. Our editorial content is independent of our commercial marketing services.

11. Photographs and Graphics

We take care in photographic and image selection and treatment. Any technical manipulation that could mislead readers is noted and explained. Photographs showing distressing or shocking situations are handled with special consideration for those affected.

12. Corrections

We believe a willingness to correct errors enhances our credibility. Significant errors are promptly corrected with fair prominence. In some circumstances, it will be appropriate to offer an apology and a right of reply to an affected person or persons.

13. Digital Responsibility

We use technology responsibly, protecting user data and maintaining secure systems. We moderate community discussions to maintain respectful discourse. We do not use deceptive practices to drive engagement.

14. Accountability

We hold ourselves accountable to these principles and welcome feedback from our community. If you believe we have fallen short of these standards, please contact us at tony@taranaki.media.

This Code of Ethics aligns with the principles of the New Zealand Media Council and is a living document that will be reviewed and updated as our platform and the media landscape evolve.