25 Feb 2022 | 05:21 AM UTC
New Zealand: Activists plan protests in multiple cities Feb. 26 to oppose COVID-19 vaccine mandates
Activists plan protests in multiple cities in New Zealand Feb. 26 to oppose COVID-19 vaccine mandates. Tight security, disruptions likely.
Event
Activists from the Freedom and Rights Coalition plan to hold protest marches in multiple cities across New Zealand Feb. 26 to denounce COVID-19 vaccine mandates they claim inhibit personal freedoms. Participation will likely involve several hundred people; however, thousands of people could join protests in major cities. Organizers have announced marches at several locations, including:
Auckland: Onepoto Domain 11:00, before marching towards Victoria Park through Auckland Harbour Bridge
Christchurch: Cranmer Square 11:00
Motueka: Thorpe Bush 11:45
Napier: Clive Square 11:00
Nelson: Anzac Park 09:00
Richmond: Washbourn Gardens 10:30
Tauranga: Memorial Park and Eastern District Paengaroa Rugby & Sports Club 11:00
Activists also intend to march in Wellington Feb. 26 but have yet to announce specific details; related protests against COVID-19 policies continue to occur at Parliament House in the city as of Feb. 25. Several hundred activists remain at the site, despite police warnings against camping at the location. Vehicles remain parked on roads near Parliament House and officials have re-routed transport services in the area. Authorities have installed concrete barriers around the protest to contain demonstrators, while scuffles have occurred between demonstrators and police.
Authorities will likely deploy security personnel at rallies and along protest routes Feb. 26. Security measures and protest activity may prompt ground transport disruptions at demonstration sites. Isolated skirmishes between protesters and police are possible.
Advice
Avoid the rallies due to the potential for clashes. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Follow all security personnel instructions. Monitor local media for updates about protest activity as organizers may not publicize plans. Plan for localized disruptions; confirm appointments nearby and use alternative routes to circumvent the protest site.
