Location: Wellington

District: National Alerts

Wellington Police along with organizers of a protest by motorcycle riders are working to keep disruption to a minimum on Tuesday 17 November.

Police are expecting the motorcyclists to travel in convoy from Porirua and Lower Hutt into Wellington, causing congestion on State Highways 1 and 2 late in the morning.

The impact of a large number of protesters has been carefully considered. Organisation aims to keep disruption in Wellington City during the protest as minimal as possible.

"Given that approximately 3,500 rider protesters are expected to converge on Wellington, it is hoped that the ride and peaceful protest will have as minimal impact as possible on the CBD," says District Road Policing Manager, Inspector Peter Baird.

"Through working with community partners including Wellington City Council and Westpac Stadium, parking has been secured at the Westpac Stadium on Aotea Quay for the motorcyclists," says Inspector Baird. "Providing parking at this location will keep congestion in city streets to a minimum for other members of the public."

The motorcyclists will join organised convoys from Porirua or Lower Hutt and will be escorted by Police patrol vehicles. They will exit the Wellington motorway onto Aotea Quay to Westpac Stadium car park and walk to the grounds of Parliament.

"The volume of protesters does have both disruption and safety risks that the organizers have been at pains to minimize, while still ensuring a maximum assembly," says Inspector Baird. "There will be a large number of motorcyclists riding closely in the convoys and there are risks involved. Those not confident to ride in an organised convoy should meet protesters at Westpac Stadium."

The traffic delays are expected from 11.30am to 1.30pm on State Highways 1 and 2 through to Aotea Quay.

ENDS

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