6 Aug 2019

Ihumātao: Pania Newton describes sudden police reinforcement

From Morning Report, 7:10 am on 6 August 2019

There has been a tense standoff at Ihumātao after police sent in reinforcements on Monday night.

Pania Newton who is leading the protests says she can't explain why more than 80 extra police turned up.

Dozens of officers lined up blocking Ihumātao Quarry Road, which leads to the front line of the occupation.

Crowds of people stood in front of the officers, waving flags, singing songs and giving talks and a call out on social media resulted in many supporters turning up at the site.

Pania Newton is leading the protest. She talks to Susie Ferguson.

RNZ has approached police for comment. Superintendent Jill Rogers confirmed on Monday night more police officers had been deployed, saying that decision was made to maintain order and ensure there is no breach of the peace.