Zimbabweans in Northland have not ruled out organising a silent protest against Robert Mugabe's regime as calls for the 92-year-old president to step down intensify globally.
Zimbabwe-born Paulette Scrooby, who lives in Whangarei, was among 17 Northlanders who joined in a peaceful demonstration under the hashtag #thisflag in Auckland last Saturday.
Worldwide protests, both online through #thisflag movement and staged demonstrations followed a heartfelt plea by Pastor Evan Mawarire of Zimbabwe, calling for compatriots to claim back their flag, and for an end to alleged corruption and human rights abuses under Mugabe.
Those who have traditionally supported Mugabe - the only leader Zimbabwe has known since independence 36 years ago - such as the Zimbabwe War Veterans' Association, were adding their voices for him to quit.
Ms Scrooby said between 100 and 120 people protested with flags and banners at the Wynyard Quarter's Te Wero Island. She said more Northlanders were keen to participate but could not attend.