“It’s nice there being a certain element of intrigue about the Northern Club,” says the general manager, Nicki de Villiers, as we sit on creaking leather armchairs beside a most welcome open fire. Outside, it’s a clear, but crisp, morning. Oak panels adorn the walls, engraved with names of the club’s presidents past and present, alongside members of the recently incorporated Officers’ Club. Beneath us splays a large animal skin. “While we pride ourselves on having that intrigue, we don’t want it to be a barrier to those wanting to become a member. We see ourselves as a luxury brand, and would rather be considered an exclusive, rather than elitist, establishment.”
Exclusive, this storied club most certainly is. Potential members must be vouched for by five serving ones, then there’s a three-month vetting period. Thanks to the privacy and discretion that membership affords, it has been graced by the “majority of pre-eminent Aucklanders”, including lords, dames, leading judiciary figures, politicians, sporting icons, and the historical architects of the city. Acceptance certainly arrives with some serious perks.
“It would be untrue to say we don’t have networking,” says Nicki. The ban on mobile phones was recently lifted. They may now be carried, ‘on silent’, with members allowed only to check texts or emails. Phone calls are strictly forbidden unless in a private room. “It is a social club, and it’s not meant for business. But I have also witnessed so many good friendships blossom over the years between people who otherwise wouldn’t have met.” There are activities for all ages (the average age of membership is currently in the late 50s, which Nicki is working hard to lower) and special interest groups, with club functions held twice a week. “We also have many guest speakers — people who it may be difficult to book for a private event, will come to talk to a group.”
There are 120 similar clubs scattered around the globe in cities such as London, Paris and New York, and though there is no official umbrella organisation, they do all adhere to the principle of reciprocity for their members. Guests of members may also use the lodgings, even if their hosts don’t stay.
The imposing stone corner structure of Princes Street has been bestowed a Category 1 listing by Heritage New Zealand. Built in 1867 as a hotel, it was established as a gentleman’s club in 1896, and served, for a time, as an officers’ mess hall. Just shy of a century later, the club opened its doors to women when Dame Catherine Tizard became New Zealand’s first female governor-general. “Traditionally, the governor-general is bestowed honorary membership for the length of their term, so that forced us to take note,” says Nicki. “It was put to a vote and an overwhelming majority favoured accepting women members.”
More and more would-be members in their 30s and 40s are now seeking to join. “There’s a real thirst to be part of something which has tradition,” says Nicki. “To experience the things that your grandfather had, and to have that sense of belonging.
“Members also certainly feel a real sense ownership — they are the owners, after all — and with that comes a real sense of pride. The staff, too, feel it. I’ve been at the club for 20 years, 17 as general manager, and a great number of staff have been here for many years. Our members love that, that familiarity. It’s good to dispel some myths, because this club is not inaccessible. It’s a warm and friendly place.”
