Police move on vaccine protesters outside New Zealand’s Parliament

WELLINGTON, New Zealand — Wearing riot gear and using pepper spray, New Zealand police today moved in on the hundreds of protesters who have been camped outside the nation’s Parliament for more than three weeks.

It was the most significant use of force yet by authorities against the protesters, who oppose coronavirus vaccine mandates.

Police also began towing some of the 300 or so cars, vans and trucks that protesters have used to block streets in the area. The convoy protest was inspired by similar protests in Canada and has sparked other protests around New Zealand.

The police action in the capital began around dawn.

Protesters were told over loudspeakers they were trespassing and needed to leave, while officers tore down tents and a police helicopter circled overhead. Some protesters confronted police and used milk to try and clear their eyes from pepper spray.

By mid-morning, police said they had made about 60 arrests and gained significant ground.

Police said some protesters had been using homemade plywood shields and pitchforks. Police also said they’d seen at least 10 children in the protest area and urged parents and caregivers to take them home.

Lawmakers across all parties have refused to meet with the protesters.