Two senior medical officers at Auckland Hospital, Drs Bodhi and Samadhi Wimalasena, are under investigation by Health New Zealand following allegations of bullying and fostering an unhealthy work environment.
The inquiry stems from a complaint lodged in April 2026 by the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists on behalf of seven senior medical officers. The complaint alleges that the sisters’ behavior created a workplace atmosphere where colleagues were reluctant to speak openly, fearing criticism or accusation. Specific claims include instances of threatening, intimidating, and harassing conduct, which both doctors deny.
In response to the allegations, the two doctors were temporarily removed from certain duties pending the investigation. Bodhi was barred from attending grand rounds and hospital-wide meetings, while Samadhi was placed on paid discretionary leave and prohibited from working in the emergency department.
Both doctors subsequently sought interim relief from the Employment Relations Authority (ERA) to challenge these restrictions. Bodhi requested reinstatement to grand rounds and other hospital events, whereas Samadhi sought to return to the emergency department while the investigation proceeded. The ERA declined their requests for permanent injunctions to halt the investigation but granted Bodhi’s application to attend educational and hospital-wide meetings. Samadhi’s application for interim reinstatement was rejected, with the authority citing concerns over potential interactions with complainants in the emergency department that could impede workplace communication.
The dispute unfolded following workplace incidents in March 2026, which also resulted in both doctors taking medical leave. Bodhi resumed work on June 8 in the older people’s health department, under a secondment arrangement reviewed every four weeks during the investigation. Samadhi was prepared for a phased return on June 22 but remained on paid discretionary leave after occupational health recommendations and ongoing investigatory considerations.
In affidavits submitted to the ERA, both doctors expressed concerns that continuing the investigation and imposed work restrictions could cause reputational, professional, and psychological harm. Bodhi argued the investigation was retaliatory and flawed from its inception, while the authority member, Simon Greening, noted that restraining investigations into employee conduct is uncommon and found insufficient grounds to halt the inquiry.
Greening emphasized that the investigation’s scope includes recommending measures to foster a safe and constructive work environment and restore professional relationships among the complainants and Dr Bodhi Wimalasena.
Health New Zealand and the doctors declined extensive comment on the ongoing legal proceedings. A spokesperson for Health New Zealand highlighted the organization’s commitment to staff safety and the availability of mechanisms to address workplace concerns. The case is set for a substantive hearing in December 2026.