25 Feb 2022

Police say they will trepass any protesters trying to camp at New Plymouth reserve

3:40 pm on 25 February 2022

Taranaki police are warning anti-vaccine mandate protesters that they will be trespassed if they attempt to camp at Puke Ariki Landing in New Plymouth.

Anti vaccination mandate protesters at Puke Ariki in New Plymouth in November last year. (2021)

Photo: RNZ / Robin Martin

Concrete bollards have been placed in front of the central city reserve after police became aware of a protest planned there tomorrow.

Police said they have been liaising with protest leaders and the council to ensure the event is lawful and does not impact the wider community.

Puke Ariki is wāhi tapu to Ngati Te Whiti Te Whiti hapū and Te Atiawa iwi who say they do not support any occupation of the reserve.

The iwi say they expect protesters to be peaceful and respectful to its whenua and awa, Puke Ariki staff, and the community.

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