Police defend protest role

Police are defending their presence at protests after accusations they are unnecessarily turning up at rallies and intimidating protestors.

Peace Action Wellington has revealed an Official Information Act request showing there were 84 police operation orders made in relation to public demonstrations last year. The group claims these include union protests, anti-war protests and even peaceful candlelight vigils.

Superintendent Tony McLeod says police have no intention of harassing or annoying demonstrators.

"Our role is to ensure public safety and that there's no disorder or violence at demonstrations. And that's what we do."

Mr McLeod says police will continue to try and impress upon protestors that police are there to facilitate their lawful demonstrations, not to prevent them from demonstrating.

- NEWSTALK ZB