9 Feb 2022

Covid-19: Luxon no fan of Parliament protesters

From Morning Report, 7:38 am on 9 February 2022

National Party leader Christopher Luxon doesn't support the protesters camped on Parliament grounds.

More than 1000 people, who travelled in convoys from the north and south, arrived in Wellington yesterday to protest against covid mandates.

Hundreds camped overnight on Parliament grounds despite it being forbidden. Vehicles have also blocked the roads and footpaths.

Christpher Luxon told Morning Report he doesn't back those campers.

"Everyone's got a right to protest. But the reality is, this is impinging on others' freedoms.

"There's people trying to get to work today, it's very difficult if we have an emergency situation, if we had a natural disaster, you need the roads cleared. Clearly, I just don't support what they're doing at all."

Unconfirmed reports from protesters spoken to by RNZ is that arrangements are being made for food and water to be brought in.

Police have said they are monitoring the situation and talking with the Speaker of the House.