Wellington: Protest concludes without issue

Barricades set up outside Parliament in Wellington on August 21 2022. Road closures were lifted at 6pm on Tuesday August 23. Photo: RNZ / Giles Dexter.

Crowds have dispersed from Parliament Grounds following The Freedom and Rights Coalition protest in Wellington on Tuesday, says Wellington District Commander Superintendent Corrie Parnell.

Around 1500 people congregated around Parliament grounds to engage in protest activity.

"The group was monitored closely by police and there were no reported issues," says Wellington District Commander Superintendent Corrie Parnell.

"We are very pleased with how people conducted themselves.

"Tuesday's positive outcome was the result of detailed planning by police, clear communication with the protest organisers, and the behaviour of those who attended," says District Commander Superintendent Corrie Parnell.

"I'm incredibly proud of the professional approach of our staff who put this plan into action.

"I would also like to make special mention of the additional staff who travelled from elsewhere in the country to assist, and our external partners who also supported police."

The Superintendent says there was no requirement for trespass orders to be issued and no arrests were made.

"The counter-protest departed earlier Tuesday afternoon without incident."

The police focus remained on balancing the safety of all protesters and the public, while acknowledging the right to protest peacefully and lawfully.

"We note the activity did disrupt traffic in areas around Parliament grounds where some roads were temporarily closed to minimise further disruption."

Road closures were lifted at 6pm on Tuesday.

"Police would like to thank the Wellington community for their understanding with the disruption caused."

Police will continue to maintain a visible presence to reassure local residents, businesses and people in the area.

4 comments

One day wonder

Posted on 24-08-2022 09:50 | By FRANKS

Much todo about nothing..............


Without Issue . . . REALLY?

Posted on 24-08-2022 12:38 | By Yadick

Roads blocked, barricades erected, convoys slow driving blocking lanes, students warned to stay home, businesses closed losing revenue, extra Policing, other Police brought in from outside area, traffic diversions in place, Wellington standing by for chaos. Yeap, no issues. Chuck the book at the preacher. The hard copy version.


Serious over reaction.....

Posted on 24-08-2022 21:50 | By groutby

.....by an ill informed government wanting so desperately to deflect the public from all of the other dramas that encompass them right now, and will for the balance of their term.....no, there weren't any issues presented by this protest, the only issues were with those deciding what was going to happen before the event even took place!...


@Yadick

Posted on 25-08-2022 18:32 | By morepork

Great comment regarding the preacher and the book... Amen!


Leave a Comment


You must be logged in to make a comment.