Judge's behaviour at NZ First event to be reviewed

The Government has confirmed a Judicial Conduct Panel will look into the behaviour of Acting District Court judge Ema Aitken.

She is accused of interrupting a New Zealand First function at the exclusive Northern Club in Auckland in November, allegedly saying leader Winston Peters was lying.

She argues she did not recognise Peters' voice and did not know it was a political event.

The Judicial Conduct Commissioner in January recommended a panel be set up to look into the alleged misconduct.

Judge Aitken challenged that recommendation through a judicial review - saying there was insufficient reason provided for a panel and it was unclear what the scope of its work would be measured against - but it failed.

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith will set up the panel to avoid any perception of bias by the Attorney-General Judith Collins.

It will consist of two judges and a layperson, and will write a report on whether it would be justified to have Judge Aitken removed.

rnz.co.nz