Hundreds of people have gathered for pro-Palestine marches across the country, including in Auckland where Neil Finn has sung Don't Dream it's Over for the crowds.
Auckland road users are being advised to plan ahead for disruptions this Saturday as pro-Palestine protesters march across the harbour bridge.
The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) said heavy congestion and delays were expected in both directions on the bridge, as well as on other state highways and localroads.
The protesters are expected to meet at Onepoto Domain in Northcote, marching south over the bridge to Victoria Park at 9.30am.
Organisers Aotearoa for Palestine said they expected tens of thousands to join the March for Humanity, calling on the New Zealand Government to impose sanctions on Israel.
“The genocide in Gaza is undeniable. Forced starvation is being used as a weapon of war, along with mass killing, and the destruction of Gaza’s health system.
“New Zealand has a moral and legal obligation to act, and must sanction Israel now,” said group spokesperson Nadine Mortaja.
Police guide a pro-Palestine protest down Queen St in December 2023. Photo / Alex Burton
NZTA and Auckland Transport (AT) urge people to check the latest information before travelling in the city.
“In particular, if you are travelling southbound into the city on Saturday, we recommend you plan ahead to avoid the bridge or consider delaying your journey if you can.”
Motorists are advised to use the western ring route via State Highways 16 and 18. Waitematā District Commander Inspector Stefan Sagar said police were continuing to plan for the march.
“The police role with any protest is to ensure this activity is both peaceful and lawful. The safety of all road users, the public, our police staff and the protesters is our priority.
“A large group of protesters accessing the motorway network poses significant safety risks to those taking part, as well as other motorists”, said Sagar.
“Police remain well connected with partner agencies, with safety being front of mind for us while also ensuring we minimise disruption to the wider public”, said Sagar.
Saturday’s march follows similar demonstrations in Australia last month, where tens of thousands of protestors marched over the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Brisbane’s Victoria Bridge.
Last year, a hīkoi of thousands crossed the Auckland Harbour Bridge on its way to Wellington to protest the controversial Treaty Principles Bill.
It took two hours for all of the protesters to cross the bridge as they walked on two closed northbound lanes just after morning rush hour.
