Police to prosecute 'number of individuals' at Auckland protest

October 30, 2021

Protesters left Auckland Domain on foot, marching through Newmarket as they opposed lockdown and vaccinations.

Police are set to take prosecution action against "a number of individuals" following another anti-lockdown protest staged at the Auckland Domain on Saturday.

According to police around 5000 people gathered in the Domain in breach of Alert Level 3 restrictions. The group then marched to Newmarket and back, "causing significant disruption to traffic in the area".

Anti-lockdown protesters at Auckland Domain on October 30.

Auckland City District Commander Superintendent Shanan Gray said police were "extremely disappointed" with the actions of the group.

"While those in attendance generally conducted themselves in a calm manner, the gathering was a significant breach of Covid-19 Alert Level 3 requirements.

"We recognise that individuals have a lawful right to protest however this should not be at the expense of restrictions designed to keep our community safe.

"The health risk posed to attendees as well as other road users was unnecessary and unacceptable."

No arrests were made today, however, police say they intend to take prosecution action against a number of individuals in the coming days.

Following the first rally, Destiny Church's Brian Tamaki and another man, Paul Thompson, pleaded not guilty to organising and attending the protest on October 2.

After the second rally on October 16, Tamaki was charged with failing to comply with a Covid-19 Public Health Response Act order and Alert Level 3 order, and police also say he also breached bail conditions.

He again entered not guilty pleas.

He was not seen at today's rally, although his wife Hannah did speak.

Two other people - a 44-year-old woman and 36-year-old man - were summonsed to appear in court next month, on charges of organising and attending the two gatherings, in breach of Alert Level 3 restrictions.

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