Occupy Auckland issued trespass notice

Related Links

Police and Los Angeles protesters skirmish

Relevant offers

Occupy Auckland protesters have accused Auckland Council of going back on its mayor's word by issuing a trespass notice against them.

The protesters, who have been occupying Auckland's Aotea Square since October 15, were today ordered to leave within the next two weeks.

The protesters say the notice came just days after a meeting with the mayor's office in which they were assured there would be no immediate action.

"This provocative action taken by the council is in direct contradiction with the understood position of Mayor Len Brown," said one of the protesters, Chris Glen.

"At our latest liaison meeting Len vehemently stated that no immediate action would be taken against the lawful protest action in Aotea Square while discussions were ongoing."

The group was discussing the mayor's request for a definite leaving date when the notice was served, he said.

Earlier this month the council said it was following "strict legal guidelines" over the protesters and would exhaust all reasonable steps prior to any enforcement action.

It said a trespass notice would be issued if they do not give a date.

Occupy Auckland, which includes union members, legalise cannabis supporters and members of the Mana Party, was established in solidarity with the Occupy Wall St movement which set up camp in New York's financial district on September 17.

The international movement has been sparked by wealth inequality and corporate influence on government.

The council has previously estimated the occupation is likely to cost ratepayers $300,000 - $400,000.

Auckland police are following the same strategy they did in Dunedin of not enforcing trespass orders because of Bill of Rights implications.

- © Fairfax NZ News