3 Mar 2022

Protesters scatter around Wellington as clean-up continues from Parliament protest

6:05 pm on 3 March 2022

Anti-mandate protesters remain scattered in different groups around the Wellington area, as the clean-up of Parliament grounds continues.

Debris left behind at Parliament after the weeks-long protest.

Debris left behind at Parliament after the weeks-long protest. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

There were chaotic scenes yesterday as police moved in to break up the long-running protest outside Parliament.

People set fire to trees and tents and loud bangs could be heard - possibly gas canisters exploding - as the flames spread - damaging the children's playground and surrounding trees. The fires were put out, allowing police to push protesters onto the streets but tensions simmered for hours.

Protesters have since gathered at several locations, including Red Rocks on Wellington's southern coast, with a small group on Boulcott Street in central Wellington.

Wellington City Council says staff and contractors are standing by to clean the streets near Parliament and repair any damage.

The area is currently a police work site, but will be handed back to the council once the operation to clear it is complete.

The council says it will give the area a "deep clean" given there have been people at the occupation with Covid-19.

Meanwhile, Parliament's regular Question Time was cancelled today and MPs are instead delivering speeches on yesterday's chaos. The House will then adjourn early and return on Tuesday.

See how the day's events unfolded with RNZ's live blog:

Get the RNZ app

for ad-free news and current affairs