Judges have been reminded of the importance of open courts after two journalists were told to leave a hearing into the Kim Dotcom case.
The action by Judge David McNaughton in the North Shore District Court lacked the courtesy, patience and tolerance expected, Judicial Conduct Commissioner Sir David Gascoigne has ruled.
The ruling followed complaints by journalists on the Herald On Sunday and the National Business Review that they were ordered to leave the court.
The clash came during a January bail hearing for Dotcom, who faces extradition to the United States on charges of criminal copyright violation.
Crowds of media and supporters of Dotcom led to Judge McNaughton clearing the court while he dealt with the normal court appearances.