• Full Story

Protesters mark 99 days of occupation

Print

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 4:01p.m.

Occupy Auckland protesters marched up Queen St today to mark the 99th day of their occupation of Aotea Sqaure (AAP)

Occupy Auckland protesters marched up Queen St today to mark the 99th day of their occupation of Aotea Sqaure (AAP)

Occupy Auckland protesters marched up Queen Street in Auckland on Saturday to mark the 99th day of their occupation of Aotea Square.

More than 100 protesters chanted and carried banners and balloons as they made their way up the central city street.

Occupy Auckland organisers said the march was to draw attention to injustices and inequalities in New Zealand, including the sale of state assets and the mining of national parks.

One protester, who gave his name as Andrew, was calling for a new public transport system for Auckland.

He said that with thousands of people unemployed, "we have the manpower to do it".

Another protester, Anton, who has been involved with Occupy Auckland since the 15th day of occupation, wanted an overhaul of the banking system.

Before Christmas, Auckland Council was granted an injunction in the Auckland District Court to have the protesters leave Aotea Square, after Judge David Wilson ruled that the occupation breached a council bylaw.

The council had issued a trespass notice saying the protesters breached a bylaw banning camping and building structures in a public space without a permit.

Some protesters chose to remain in Aotea Square despite the court order, while others moved to another site across the road or to Victoria Park.

The Occupy Auckland group began their camp-out in Aotea Square on October 15, alongside other groups in Wellington and Dunedin, as part of a global protest movement which started in New York's Wall Street in September.

NZN

Become a fan of 3 News on Facebook and on Twitter.

Post a Comment

Before commenting, please take the time to read our moderation guide


(Won't be published)



Comments