Newstalk ZB broadcaster Martin Devlin will keep his job, after an independent investigation into workplace incidents that saw him temporarily suspended.
In May, the veteran sports talk host was taken off air, due to an altercation that saw him throw a punch at a colleague, followed by allegations of further inappropriate workplace behaviour, including sending female staff members "uncomfortable" emails.
NZME chief editor Shayne Currie has confirmed that the investigation conducted by employment lawyer Bridget Smith exonerated Devlin on both counts.
"In respect of the two formal complaints made against him, [Smith's] report has found that neither complaint was substantiated," says Currie.
Devlin will return to work "in due course", Currie adds.
The punching incident reportedly occurred when his colleague asked to break a story on Devlin's show, but refused to divulge the subject matter.
"I lost my rag at a radio colleague and have rightfully been away from the studios, while NZME has undertaken a process to investigate and determine what happened, and ensure the safety of its people," Devlin said in an apology issued after the incident.
"I took a swing at my colleague during a discussion that became heated. While I never had any intention to connect, that's not the point.
"My behaviour was wholly unacceptable, I am deeply, deeply sorry, and have apologised to him and my other colleagues who witnessed it."
In May, a female colleague told NZME that she had received unwelcome messages and invitations from Devlin, which he later described as "innocent".
Devlin says he's been "angry" and has suffered from depression since his father died in 2007.
"This incident has been a circuit-breaker for me, forcing me to confront and acknowledge every dumb and disorderly thing I have done. Yes, it's a long, long list," he said in May.
"Sitting on the car bonnet, exploding at criticism from listeners who have texted in, insulting and lashing out on-air at media colleagues, swinging at someone at work.
"I can, hand on heart, say that I genuinely believe that nothing like this will ever happen again. I begin therapy on Monday to deal with my anger."
