Weta calls in QC after sexual harassment claims

A Queen’s Counsel will be brought in to carry out an independent review of Weta Digital after allegations of sexual harassment at the Wellington film-making hub.

A statement issued by the company said the move was commissioned by the owners of Weta Digital.

The majority owners are filmmakers Sir Peter Jackson, Dame Fran Walsh, and Philippa Boyens.

It follows a string of sexual harassment allegations at the company, which prompted Workplace Relations Minister Andrew Little to call for an independent investigation.

In a 1 News report, more than 40 current and former Weta Digital staff spoke out, alleging bullying, harassment and a toxic culture at the Wellington special effects company.

Little yesterday said it was a ‘‘positive development’’ that a QC had been brought in.

‘‘Every worker deserves to be safe in their workplace,’’ Little said.

An investigation is already under way at Weta Workshop, a separate but related company more closely tied to Sir Richard Taylor.

It follows similar claims of bullying, sexual harassment and of a toxic culture, kicked off by a former Weta Workshop employee, Layna Lazar.

The Weta Workshop investigation was being handled by a human resources firm.

Lazar yesterday said it would have been better if Weta Workshop – like Weta Digital – had the allegations looked into by a QC.

She was pessimistic about the eventual outcome resulting in real change, or of the person she alleged to be the worst of the culprits facing any reprimand.

‘‘I really, really hope, with everyone that has come forward, they come to their senses,’’ she said. ‘‘The fact it has taken so long – I don’t think so.’’

She knew a ‘‘handful’’ of people had spoken to investigators on her behalf. She had also shared her story.

Stuff understands the Weta Workshop investigation was taking longer than expected because more people have come forward to share their stories.

In a statement yesterday, Weta Workshop said the investigation was ongoing and there was no indication of when it might conclude.

‘‘As we had signalled previously, we’d like to receive the review as soon as possible – but it’s equally important this is a comprehensive inquiry conducted independently of WetaWorkshop.’’