Sister doctors bid to stop Auckland Hospital bullying investigation rejected
An employment authority has rejected a bid by two Auckland Hospital doctors to stop an independent investigation into bullying allegations against them. While one doctor was granted reinstatement to educational meetings, the other remains on leave while the investigation proceeds.
Why it matters
The case highlights workplace culture issues in the healthcare sector and the legal challenges of managing internal conduct investigations.
Auckland Hospital senior medical officers and sisters Drs Bodhi and Samadhi Wimalasena are being investigated by Health New Zealand over allegations of bullying and creating an “unhealthy work environment”.
A complaint lodged with Health NZ (HNZ) in April 2026 by the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists, on behalf of seven senior medical officers (SMOs), alleged the doctors’ conduct left complainants reluctant to speak openly for fear of becoming the subject of criticism or accusation.
The complaint alleges that, on occasions, the sisters’ behaviour was threatening, intimidating and harassing – allegations they both deny.
Both doctors were removed from aspects of their work while the investigation was carried out.
Bodhi was barred from attending grand rounds and other meetings, while Samadhi was placed on paid discretionary leave and prevented from returning to the emergency department.
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