A bid by the late Earl Hagaman's estate to continue a defamation case against former Labour leader Andrew Little has been dismissed by the Supreme Court.

Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller

Mr Hagaman - who died in May last year - and his wife Lianna-Merie sued Mr Little for statements made about a hotel contract.

A jury was not able to reach a conclusive verdict.

Mr Hagaman's widow tried to continue the case, taking it to the Court of Appeal.

It ruled the case could not continue after Mr Hagaman's death and the decision was taken to the Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court decision today said the arguments by Mr Hagaman's representatives were not sufficient to warrant a retrial.

Mr Little has been awarded costs.

Mr Hagaman started the Scenic Hotel Group.