High profile figures claim free speech under threat

An Auckland university professor has written an open letter rejecting the "forceful silencing of dissenting or unpopular views" on university campuses, reports the New Zealand Herald.

The letter, co-ordinated by Auckland University of Technology's History Professor Paul Moon, was signed by 27 high-profile New Zealanders, including Dame Tariana Turia and Don Brash.
The letter was in response to Human Rights Commissioner Dame Susan Devoy's call for a review of "hate speech" law. Police are suggesting it be looked at as a specific crime.

"Freedom of speech underpins our way of life in New Zealand as a liberal democracy. It enables religious observance, individual development, societal change, science, reason and progress in all spheres of life. In particular, the free exchange of ideas is a cornerstone of academe," the letter said.
Full report on the New Zealand Herald site