31 Mar 2022 | 06:08 AM UTC
New Zealand: Activists plan to hold protests in Wellington from 09:00 April 1
Activists plan to hold protests in Wellington, New Zealand, from 09:00 April 1. Tight security likely, disruptions possible.
Event
Activists from the Unite group plan to rally in Wellington from 09:00 April 1 to denounce the government's official COVID-19 control measures. Organizers claim that gatherings will last for 14 days at various locations, but will only disclose details closer to the start dates to prevent security forces from interfering. Participation in the events could involve dozens to hundreds of people. Likely protest locations include government buildings and public squares, like Parliament House and Te Ngakau Civic Square. Authorities plan to close parliament grounds from April 1 and have cordoned off Bowen and Molesworth streets as a precaution.
Police will almost certainly deploy heavily around Parliament in Wellington from April 1; roadblocks or security cordons are likely. Police may attempt to prevent demonstrators from congregating or forcibly disperse activists. Security measures and protest activity may prompt ground transport disruptions at demonstration sites and adjacent areas. Clashes between protesters and police are possible.
Advice
Monitor trusted local sources for updates on protest activity if operating in Wellington from April 1. Avoid any demonstration due to possible clashes. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Follow all security personnel instructions.
