New book Dirty Work highlights challenges and resilience of Māori journalism in political landscape

A new investigation by author Nicky Hager has sparked a national conversation regarding the protection and value of Māori journalism in Aotearoa. In his recently released book, Dirty Work, Hager explores the experiences of Maiki Sherman, the former 1News political editor, alleging she was the target of a coordinated political campaign. According to reports from Waatea News on 26 September 2026, the book suggests that Sherman’s departure from her high-profile role occurred against a backdrop of intense political pressure. Hager’s research examines the role of various campaigners and organisations, including allegations that specific networks amplified attacks against Sherman. While Sherman previously acknowledged and apologised for inappropriate comments made to a colleague, Hager alleges that the broader public campaigning against her was an organized effort. The book claims that groups like the Taxpayers’ Union, which have been vocal in debates regarding Three Waters and Te Tiriti, have increasingly moved into spaces involving Māori political issues. The discussion surrounding Sherman’s career serves as a focal point for the publication Te Kaupapa to advocate for greater transparency in political advocacy. The outlet notes that when senior Māori journalists face targeting by political figures, it is essential to scrutinise the machinery operating behind the headlines. This includes understanding the relationships between advocacy groups and how they influence public debate on Indigenous matters. While the Taxpayers’ Union and its executive director Jordan Williams strongly dispute Hager’s characterisations, describing their actions as ordinary democratic advocacy, the controversy has underscored the vital role Māori media plays. The ongoing debate highlights the need for journalists and voters to remain vigilant about who shapes the narratives surrounding Māori leadership and representation in Parliament as the 54th term concludes.