But the climb was slow, and by the age of 40, he received a phone call that would change everything.
Paterson said the message was blunt: “Zinny, [you’re] too fat and too old. But hang on, there’s this new thing called TMO”.
This conversation opened the door to a role that had only just emerged at the time.
Fifteen years later, Paterson has overseen more than 150 matches.
Inside the TMO box, the set-up is far more complex than most fans realise, Paterson said.
As the main TMO, he watches the same broadcast feed viewers see at home.
Beside him is an assistant with a monitor showing 10 camera angles, able to rewind, zoom and analyse incidents while play continues, Paterson said.
The two officials talk constantly, reviewing moments that never reach the public screen.
“We’re probably getting nine of those [incidents] happening and one getting pulled up.”
That’s when Paterson presses the button that stops the game, and his pressure peaks.
“Everything stands up on the back of your neck,” he said, because it’s a moment that can change momentum, influence results and ignite debate.
Yet, to Paterson, the process has become clearer and more disciplined in recent years as TMOs now avoid marginal calls.
He said TMOs would instead focus on serious foul play and clear triggers, such as dangerous contact or genuine player injury.
Aaron “Zinny” Paterson picked up the whistle aged 34 and was determined to climb the ladder into the NPC and national referee squads.
He is particularly wary of slow-motion replays, which can make routine collisions look sinister.
“[Because when] you play it real speed, there’s nothing in it.”
That’s why, as a safeguard against over-officiating, Paterson said he watches incidents at full pace before making any decision.
Despite the intensity of the role of TMO, Paterson said he loves it.
He enjoys the collaboration with referees, the challenge of making tough calls, and the satisfaction of helping keep players safe.
Waikato rugby referee turned TMO Aaron Paterson.
He also values the growing transparency between officials and broadcasters, saying commentators now hear TMO discussions live, allowing fans to understand decisions as they unfold.
It is a change Paterson supports, even if hearing his own voice echo across stadium speakers remains uncomfortable for him.
Through his job as TMO, Paterson has travelled to games across the world, including a memorable four-test series in Argentina alongside Nigel Owens.
But Paterson said he couldn’t pick a favourite match. He just enjoys being part of the game’s heartbeat week after week.
“I just love it.”
Graeme “Mintie” Mead is a sports commentator, the host of the radio show Waikato All Sports Breakfast and a Newstalk ZB overnight host. He is also a councillor on the Hamilton City Council.