Summarised by Centrist
Journalist Gavin Ellis writes that The New Zealand Herald has compromised its integrity by using generative AI to produce editorials without disclosure. Ellis states that “trust and credibility are vitally important” and AI-written content undermines these core values.
After being exposed by Radio New Zealand, the Herald admitted to the practice. The Herald’s editor-in-chief, Murray Kirkness, acknowledged the issue, promising that “trust and credibility are vitally important to us” and announcing plans for further discussions about the use of AI.
However, Ellis criticises the lack of transparency and journalistic rigour, calling for a “publicly accessible AI code of conduct” to prevent such issues and ensure accountability.
Ellis gives credit to Hayden Donnell of RNZ Mediawatch who uncovered the AI usage with AI detection software.
This incident has triggered fears that AI-generated content could erode public trust in media, with Ellis warning that “the AI-generated editorial disclosure is a gift from the gods for those who seek to undermine news media.”
Ellis writes that the Herald must address this problem head-on to restore its integrity, stating, “This is a serious matter that requires no small amount of damage control.”
