Protesters confront PM

One of the protestors outside Palmerston North Girls' High School. Photo: ALECIA ROUSSEAU

John Key's visit to Palmerston North last week was tarred by a group of protesters expressing "disgust" at the controversial Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement.

The prime minister's visit included a stop off at Palmerston North Girls' High where he spoke of leadership, before heading to Massey University.

His visit was not made public and Massey University's communications advisor James Gardiner said they were asked not to publicise the event until 12pm on the day. "It isn't an official campus visit ... he was asked to come along by one of the young Nats here."

Protesters were present at both sites carrying flags and signs, while several police officers and campus security watched closely.

Activist Cherylee Bishop led a series of chants and shouted at the prime minister, "this is what democracy sounds like".

Cardinal Karl Pearce said they were there to fight for freedom. He said the Government's intentions with the TPPA were disingenuous and they were already putting bills before parliament to have the process "streamlined".

Throughout his campus visit, Key took several selfies with students and spoke to them on the concourse.

He did not address any of the protesters nor did he react to their comments.

Professor Jeff Sluka said the TPPA was "exactly" the kind of agreement that had caused economic problems.

"These free trade agreements are the cornerstone of this ... this is going to allow corporations to create jobs offshore for low wage slaves in third world countries."

He said pharmaceutical companies were only interested in making a profit and the TPPA was going to safeguard them in their "gouging".

"What about the baby boomers? The demand for healthcare is going up ... this agreement is literally evil. It will harm the people who need these things the most."

A roadshow promoting the agreement began in Auckland on Monday. Trade minister Todd McClay said the TPP was the most widely consulted free trade agreement in New Zealand's history.