Howl of a Protest: Tractors and utes descend on cities as farmers protest

Trucks, utes and even dogs descended on city centres around the country today, as farmers took part in a huge protest.

The Howl of a Protest event, organised by Groundswell New Zealand, has seen thousands of farm vehicles rumbling through cities in protest against what farmers say is increasing interference from the Government, unworkable regulations and unjustified costs.

The protests took place in 55 cities starting from Kaitaia to Southland.

Auckland

Hundreds of farmers hit Auckland CBD after taking to the Southern Motorway in tractors, heavy farm equipment and utes to participate in the protest.

Crowds cross Queen and Victoria Street with tractors in Auckland. Photo / Greg Bowker

The area around Drury and Ramarama was gridlocked at 9.30am as the convoy made their way to the motorway.

Protesters with signs and flags head to Auckland CBD. Photo / Emma Olsen

Auckland motorists travelling on the Southern motorway were told to expect delays as scores of tractors and utes travel towards the city centre this morning.

The New Zealand Transport Agency warned motorists heading into the city on the Southern Motorway to consider using alternate motorways and avoid the protest.

It said traffic was heavy between Drury and Manukau as slow vehicles ventured north on the Southern Motorway. Motorists should consider detouring via SH20, SH16, or be prepared for delays.

One video clip shared on Facebook shows large farm vehicles lining a main road in Franklin. The man who captured the footage called it a great turnout.

Heavy traffic in Auckland's State Highway 1 City bound. Photo / Emma Olsen

One huge tractor carried a big sign at the back, reading: "No farmers, no food."

Several tractors have the New Zealand flag flying from them.

Another video showed a long line of tractors snaking down the northbound slow lane.