Police are investigating a disorder incident at the Monkey House Lounge and Cabaret in Whitianga, following allegations that members of the Mercury Bay Rugby Club engaged in aggressive and misogynistic behavior. Venue owners reported that a group of men refused to leave the premises, resulting in a physical altercation that left a performer injured.
The Incident at Monkey House Lounge and Cabaret
The conflict began around 12:30 a.m. when a group of men wearing Mercury Bay Rugby Club branding entered the Whitianga venue. According to owner-operator Kaspur Franke, the group’s behavior escalated from disruptive—including attempting to use stage equipment—to physically combative. Franke stated that after the men refused verbal requests to leave, a “melee” occurred involving approximately six individuals.
DJ Amber White, who was working at the venue, reported that she was targeted after attempting to remove a man from the stage. “I’m a 5 foot tall woman and he just got tossed out in front of all his boys and so he thought that would be the perfect time to try fight me,” White said. During the ensuing altercation, White’s partner intervened, and White sustained an arm injury after being pushed against a wall.
Did you know?
The Monkey House Lounge and Cabaret owners have trespassed the men for two years, citing a need for culture change regarding antisocial behavior in nightlife venues.
Club Response and Police Investigation
Mike Skeen, chairman of the Mercury Bay Rugby and Sports Club, confirmed the club is aware of the reports involving its members. In a statement, Skeen said, “We understand that a complaint has been made to the police and we will fully support them in any investigation.” The club has stated it condemns all forms of harassment and violence, particularly against women, noting that the alleged behavior does not align with their organizational values.
New Zealand Police confirmed they were called to the scene to address reports of disorder. Authorities stated that while no serious injuries were reported to them, they are continuing inquiries into the circumstances of the event. No arrests have been publicly announced as of the current reporting.
Broader Cultural Concerns in Sports Organizations
The incident has prompted a wider discussion from venue operators regarding the conduct of sporting groups in social settings. Molly Molloy, co-owner of the Monkey House, described the event as symptomatic of a culture where men, particularly within certain sporting organizations, operate under the assumption that they will not face consequences for their actions.
“There really seems to be quite a culture of misogynistic men thinking that they’ll be all right because there are no consequences,” Molloy said. She argued that addressing this requires the community to intervene when they witness microaggressions or harassment, rather than remaining silent or dismissing such behavior as humor.
If you witness harassment in a hospitality setting, notify venue security or staff immediately. Documentation and reporting are essential steps in ensuring accountability and maintaining a safe environment for both staff and patrons.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What action has the rugby club taken?
The Mercury Bay Rugby and Sports Club is cooperating with the police investigation and has stated it will take appropriate action once the investigation is complete. - Are there injuries reported?
While police stated there were no “serious injuries” reported to them, venue staff reported that a performer was injured during the altercation. - What is a trespass notice?
A trespass notice is a formal legal warning issued by a property owner or occupier, banning specific individuals from entering their premises for a set period, typically two years in New Zealand.
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