Police continued to be concerned by the deteriorating environment at Parliament grounds and are urging people to stay away.
Aggressive behaviour from protesters, extremely poor sanitary conditions, the confirmed presence of Covid-19, and the number of unwell people amongst the group all make for a an unsafe, and unpleasant environment for anyone thinking of joining the activity.
Police have noted aggressive behaviour amongst protestors and towards Police. Increasingly, key protest group leaders are unable to control or influence the disparate groups within the protest.
Last night, Police arrested a 35-year-old man and charged him with inciting violence. He is due to appear in the Wellington District Court next week.
Police maintain that the protest site is not a suitable environment for families and children.
We are urging people intent on attending the protest today or the coming week, to stay away, this is not a safe place.
We do not want more people joining this environment and putting their health and safety at risk.
Police will continue to have a highly visible presence in and around Parliament grounds to reassure local residents, businesses and people in the area today.
Police estimate there are about 300 vehicles inside the cordoned area this morning.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre