Police say they’re looking to take enforcement action after protestors entered Auckland’s motorway network on foot today, November 16, with others joining them by exiting vehicles.
The “Make New Zealand Great Again” protest rally was led by Destiny Church leader Apostle Brian Tamaki and saw hundreds of people drive vehicles and ride motorcycles from south of Auckland to Auckland Domain.
Members of the protest group stopped on State Highway 1 in the northbound lanes, blocking traffic.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Naila Hassan says police acknowledge the right to protest, however will take action when that activity becomes unlawful, impinges on others’ freedom of movement, causes significant disruption and places others at risk.
“Police were notified of a vehicle protest today before it occurred, and were monitoring it, however we were not aware of plans for participants to be on the motorway on foot.
“A permit for this activity had not been sought and as such, there were no traffic management plans in place in order to keep the wider public safe.
“It has subsequently become quite clear that this is what organisers had planned, and there is simply no excuse for putting other road users at risk.
“This behaviour was reckless, unlawful and extremely irresponsible.”
Hassan says the unexpected activity caused disruption for thousands of people who hadn’t been able to plan for delays or take alternate routes.
“We want to acknowledge everyone who exercised patience on the roads today – we know how disruptive this would have been to your day.
“We will be following up with organisers and those involved and taking appropriate action wherever possible.”
Tamaki’s event today was a protest against the flying of flags in this country other than the New Zealand flag.
