02 Aug 2022 | 07:25 AM UTC
New Zealand: Anti-government activists to rally, and march in Auckland, North Island, from 11:00 Aug. 6
Activists to rally and march in Auckland, New Zealand, from 11:00 Aug. 6. Tight security and disruptions likely.
Event
Activists from the Freedom and Rights Coalition, Convoy NZ, and affiliated groups plan to protest the government in Auckland Aug. 6. Demonstrators will gather at Auckland Domain park from 11:00, with events planned throughout the day. Organizers also plan to march in the city, though the route remains unclear. Activists targeted the Auckland Southern Motorway (State Highway 1) during a similar demonstration July 23, and protesters are likely to attempt to march on another major roadway. Convoy NZ may carry out go slow actions on roads leading to or from Auckland Domain and other areas of the city. Several thousand people could join the activities.
Authorities will almost certainly increase security near the demonstrations; roadblocks or security cordons are likely. Security measures and protest activity will probably prompt localized transport disruptions near impacted areas. Isolated skirmishes and clashes between protesters and police are possible.
Context
The Auckland demonstration is the first in a series that the Freedom and Rights Coalition hopes will force a no-confidence vote in parliament and a snap election. Organizers intend to demonstrate in Christchurch Aug. 13. Additionally, activists are planning caravans from Kaitaia, North Island, and Invercargill, South Island, to Wellington beginning Aug. 22. The groups will converge in the capital Aug. 23 for a planned mass demonstration at Parliament House. Convoy NZ plans to support the actions in Christchurch and Wellington, potentially exacerbating disruptions in those cities.
Advice
Monitor trusted local sources for updates about protest activity if operating in Auckland, as organizers are unlikely to announce routes in advance. Avoid any demonstration due to possible clashes. If violence breaks out, depart the area immediately. Follow all instructions from security personnel.
