Northern Club Confirms Ban on Individuals Involved in Peters Incident
The Northern Club has officially confirmed that three individuals involved in a high-profile incident involving District Court Judge Ema Aitken and former Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters will not be permitted to return to the venue. The decision follows a thorough internal investigation into the events of November 22, 2024, which took place during a New Zealand First party fundraiser at the historic Auckland establishment.
In a communication sent to members on March 21, Club President Dr. Arthur Morris addressed the ongoing media attention surrounding the venue. Morris stated that a committee had executed a comprehensive inquiry into the evening’s proceedings and confirmed that those involved in the disruption were not members of the club. Steps were taken at the time to ensure they do not enter the club again. The administration emphasized that such behavior is unacceptable within the clubhouse, particularly when directed towards staff.
The incident in question occurred late last year, drawing significant public and legal scrutiny. District Court Judge Ema Aitken was accused of disrupting the fundraiser, with allegations suggesting she interrupted then-Deputy Prime Minister Peters while he was delivering a speech. Reports indicate she was allegedly heard saying the politician was “lying,” though Aitken has denied shouting and disputed characterizations of her conduct. She has, yet, apologized for “rude” behavior during the event.
Beyond the immediate club response, the matter has escalated into an unprecedented Judicial Conduct Panel hearing. This legal process examines the behavior of Judge Aitken, as well as that of her husband, intensive care specialist Dr. David Galler and barrister Michael Reed KC. The panel represents a rare mechanism for addressing judicial conduct, with no judge previously having been removed from the bench through this specific process.
Club Governance and Member Protocol
Dr. Morris’s newsletter also outlined a protocol for members should they be approached by journalists regarding the club’s involvement in the story. The correspondence advised that if members are contacted by the media, it assists the administration significantly if they simply reply “no comment” and refer inquiries to the general manager. A spokesperson for the club reinforced this stance, stating that the organization does not comment on club business publicly.
The Northern Club, a longstanding institution in Auckland, maintains strict governance over its premises. The confirmation that the individuals involved were not members underscores the club’s effort to distance its membership base from the incident. By enforcing a ban on return, the committee aims to preserve the integrity of the venue and ensure the safety and comfort of its staff and legitimate members.
Legal Implications and Timeline
The judicial panel is expected to deliver its recommendation to Acting Attorney-General Paul Goldsmith by April 2026. Goldsmith will then hold the authority to decide whether Judge Aitken should be removed from the bench. This timeline places the resolution of the legal matter in the near future, closing a chapter that has dominated headlines since the initial incident between a district court judge and Winston Peters came to light.
When approached for comment regarding the club’s recent newsletter, Judge Aitken’s lawyer, David Jones KC, indicated that he had no comment to make. This silence aligns with the ongoing legal proceedings, where public statements could potentially influence the panel’s deliberations or the Attorney-General’s final decision.
What Comes Next
As the Judicial Conduct Panel concludes its hearings, the focus will shift to the Attorney-General’s office. The decision on whether to remove a sitting judge is a significant constitutional matter, setting a potential precedent for judicial accountability in New Zealand. Simultaneously, the Northern Club will likely maintain its low-profile stance, adhering to the “no comment” policy to navigate the remaining media interest.
For members of the Northern Club, the immediate future involves maintaining unity and adhering to the communication guidelines issued by the presidency. For the broader public, the outcome of the panel’s recommendation will provide clarity on the boundaries of judicial conduct in public spaces.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Attorney-General’s decision is announced in the coming weeks. Share your thoughts on the implications of this case for judicial conduct and private venue governance in the comments below.
