Convicted killer Scott Watson will return to court this morning to fight for the right to meet with an investigative journalist.

Watson's seeking a judicial review of a decision by the Chief Executive of Corrections to refuse him a meeting with North and South reporter Mike Smith.

It's understood Watson, who is serving 17 years for the murder of Ben Smart and Olivia Hope, wants to discuss his case with Smith.

Mr Smart and Ms Hope were last seen boarding a yacht in the Marlborough Sounds in 1998 - Watson has maintained his innocence.

Under correction rules, the Chief Executive must give permission for interviews to be conducted.

The hearing gets underway at 10am at the High Court in Christchurch.