Tensions are rising between police and anti-mandate protesters around the parliamentary precinct with repeated early morning clashes between both parties over the last two days.
Police Assistant Commissioner Richard Chambers is speaking to media regarding the latest developments.
This morning, one person was arrested after driving a car into police officers.
Two other people have been arrested for obstructing police.
Hundreds of police armed with riot shields stationed themselves around the protesters, in an attempt to reduce the perimeter of the protest.
Police said some used shields to protect themselves from thrown objects.
They said three officers required medical attention after being sprayed with an "unknown substance".
Photo: RNZ.
"Police continue to be extremely appalled by the behaviour exhibited by protesters at Parliament," says a police spokepserson.
"Three officers were taken to hospital for a medical assessment this morning after being sprayed with a stinging substance that is still to be determined.
"All three are reported to be doing well.
"Other officers were fortunate to escape injury after a person deliberately drove the wrong way down Molesworth Street and stopped just short of colliding with them."
About 250 staff were involved in the operation early this morning to shift the existing concrete bollards to further reduce the area of protest activity.
Staff secured locations at Aitken, Molesworth and Hill streets to allow forklift vehicles to move the concrete blocks.
The bollard line on Aitken Street and Hill Street was moved in about 50 metres, and about 100 metres on Molesworth Street.
"Following yesterday's traffic management operation to install the barriers, Police were made aware of protesters' plans to again throw human waste at officers.
"Shields were only deployed this morning after protesters had thrown objects at staff.
"Officers will continue to be highly visible in and around the protest area today.
"As we stated yesterday, it has become increasingly clear that genuine protesters are no longer in control of the behaviour in and around Parliament.
"Police do not wish to interfere with lawful protest, but the behaviours we are seeing are unlawful and will result in enforcement action."
4 comments
Aggressive police
Posted on 22-02-2022 12:36 | By an_alias
So why would you rush 250 Police into a volatile position unless you wanted to get a reaction. The only conclusion is this is the desired result.
winston
Posted on 22-02-2022 17:19 | By dave4u
One of the protesters repeatedly called Peters "potato" and "potato head" That's respect for you. He must have pretty old and wrinkly potatoes where he comes from.
Riot shields!
Posted on 22-02-2022 21:30 | By Slim Shady
Surely they should be in Haz mat suits if people are flinging poo? Unless the protesters are capable of sh**ing bricks. I’ve heard about that phenomenon but never experienced it myself.
@ Slim Shady
Posted on 23-02-2022 13:30 | By Yadick
Another great one. HAHAHA
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