The University of Otago is not ruling out legal action against TVNZ

The Sunday program aired the stories of three women claiming they've been sexually assaulted or raped while at the uni.

But in a statement, vice-chancellor Harlene Hayne criticises the reporting, accuracy and responsibility of TVNZ as public broadcaster - saying emails between university staff and students were taken out of context.

She says the University stands by their handling of the complaints, the sensitivity and fairness of their investigation - and their student support.

In response, Sunday executive producer, Jane Skinner, says Sunday stands by its report and the women have a right to share their stories.