Police statement - NZDIA protest

To be attributed to Superintendent Karyn Malthus, Auckland City District Commander.
 
Police have today been responding to protest activity outside the New Zealand Defence Industry Association (NZDIA) conference.
 
The role of police is to ensure safety and uphold the law, while recognising the lawful right to protest. However this has to be balanced against the rights of individuals to go about their daily business without being interfered with by protest action.
 
The actions of police are always dictated by the situation presented to us.  Police will respond appropriately to any issues regarding disorder or public safety that may arise.  
 
It was pleasing to hear protest organisers acknowledge Police for the discipline that officers at the protest displayed today.  
 
Police can confirm that no arrests were made.  However, Police are concerned that a number of protesters behaved in a way that created safety issues, both for others at the protest and delegates attempting to enter the conference.
 
Police are aware that further protest activity is planned this week, and our staff will continue to work to ensure safety and uphold the law, while also continuing to recognise the lawful right to protest.  
 
While protest – even disruptive protest – is not in itself unlawful, police will respond to behaviour which is a clear criminal offence, such as assault and trespass.  
 
Police would also ask that those taking part in any ongoing protest activity continue to keep the safety of themselves and others in mind.
 
ENDS
 
Issued by Police Media Centre.