Day 4

I’ve spent most of today working as a volunteer security guard for the protest. This involved keeping drunk and other disorderly people out initially in the early hours of the day, but later on, it evolved into mostly helping people out, and giving directions in much the same way a tour guide would. The day went very quickly and it was quite a positive and rewarding experience.

It was interesting when a guy started casually ‘interviewing’ the other volunteer guard I was with. He spoke with her for quite some time, and it soon became obvious he was a journalist trying to make a news story, rather than report one. His questions were designed to persuade her around to a certain point of view. She was on to him thou, and said nothing that was useful to him. He left the site several hours later in a non-talkative mood.

The police have been steadily reducing the area that the protest resides in. They have been letting cars leave the protest area, but not return. This strategy suffered a setback overnight when the protesters managed to move one of the barricades, which allowed some cars to get back in.

This set the scene for another drama that happened just in time for the 6PM news. The Police in riot gear moved forward to allow a forklift to put more blocks in place. The protesters held a line and shouted ‘peace and love’ at the Police, who retreated once their work was completed.

It remains to be seen how this situation will evolve, as reinforcements are likely to turn up for the weekend.

“A decision unmade is still a decision. It won’t go away. Neither will problems or more options.” ~Emily Grabatin

“You can’t make decisions based on fear and the possibility of what might happen.” ~Michelle Obama

Day 14 of the protest

The impasse continues with the Government unwilling to communicate with the protesters. They are protesting about mandatory vaccinations.

A recent survey shows that the protesters broadly represent the NZ population in general.

https://theplatform.kiwi/opinions/parliamentary-protest-poll-results-february-2022

In other words, you can’t just write them off as radicals.

A recent poll has also shown 30% support from the public, which shows just how out of touch the Government is.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/127808790/parliament-protest-new-poll-shows-30-per-cent-of-kiwis-support-antimandate-protest

It is very well organised with several food area’s, first aid, a children’s area, admin, security, hairdresser, massage, main stage, etc.  

The police at this point appear to be probing the protesters somewhat to test them. These ‘probes’ tend to be somewhat theatrical and happen after the media have setup in just the right location, and also, just before the news on TV. (In other words, staged for the media)

On the protesters side, they have a fringe element that’s looking for trouble. The organisers have been booting these people out and/or handing them over to the police.

The impression I get from all this, is that the real battle going on, is for public opinion.

It’s common for passers-by to come to the protest for a look, or offer their support. I’ve met a few of them over the last few days. This underlines the friendly vibe the protest has in general.

A couple of politicians have shown some support today. Firstly, Winston Peters of NZ First came for a visit.

An ex Prime Minister (Jim Bolger), has come out and said that the Government should talk to these protesters in the media.

https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/462025/political-leaders-should-get-off-their-high-horses-jim-bolger

and Matt King (ex-National party), generally turns up everyday and speaks to the crowd.

Update

The former ACT Party leader and Member of Parliament has written an article on the current situation.

https://www.bassettbrashandhide.com/post/the-protestors-have-won

The protest group have released another statement as well

Parliament Protest Group Press Release 22 Feb: Protesters concerned about Police inaction over offenders, ‘External Parties causing tensions’

In conclusion thou, it’s been a full on day, but also quite relaxed despite the occassional tension in the air.

I spent most of today travelling to Wellington, and then I spent a few hours taking it all in..

I found the locals are quite casual about masks with only around 25% of them wearing masks while walking around. I found this surprising because you would think the capital city would be following Government dogma with vigour.

The locals also have a casual attitude towards the protest. Schoolkids were casually walking around without a care in the world. It was notable that a few local office workers were either helping out or thanking the protesters for what they are doing.

The protest itself has a festival / market vibe to it. There are several music stages and it was a very relaxed atmosphere, until the police attempted to get a car towed away. They were unsuccessful in the end and the tow truck left in a hurry, empty handed.

This setup a bad vibe which led to a confrontation in the same place later. It was notable thou that some of the passing traffic were in support of the protest.

At this point the Government still refuses to listen or talk to the protesters who have organised a negotiator to speak on there behalf. There are no visible leaders, because the police have been arresting them in the past.

A lighthearted insightful look at the protest.