Northern Club Bans Judge and Others Involved in Peters Incident
Three individuals involved in a November 2024 incident at Auckland’s Northern Club, involving District Court Judge Ema Aitken and New Zealand First leader Winston Peters, have been barred from returning to the venue. The decision was communicated to club members by president Dr. Arthur Morris in a newsletter on Saturday, March 23, 2026.
The incident occurred during a New Zealand First party fundraiser on November 22, 2024, where Judge Aitken allegedly interrupted Peters’ speech, stating he was “lying.” Stuff reported on the initial allegations in February 2026.
According to the newsletter, a committee conducted a thorough investigation and determined that those involved were not members of the club. “Steps were taken by the committee at the time to ensure that they do not enter the club again. This type of behaviour is unacceptable within our clubhouse, especially towards our staff,” Morris stated. 1News obtained a copy of the email.
Morris also requested that members refrain from commenting on the incident to the media, directing all inquiries to the club’s general manager.
Judicial Conduct Panel Hearing
The incident prompted an unprecedented Judicial Conduct Panel hearing, examining Judge Aitken’s behavior, as well as that of her husband, Dr. David Galler, and barrister Michael Reed KC. Newsroom provided coverage of the hearing in February 2026.
Judge Aitken has acknowledged “rude” behavior but denied shouting at Peters or misrepresenting her actions. LawNews reported on Aitken’s testimony to the panel.
The panel is expected to submit its recommendation to acting attorney-general Paul Goldsmith by April 2026, who will then decide whether Judge Aitken should be removed from the bench. No New Zealand judge has previously been removed through this process.
Judge Aitken declined to comment on the Northern Club’s decision through her lawyer, David Jones KC.