All Blacks Parade and Children’s Halloween Event Welcomed by Wellington Occupiers

Despite rumours of a possible eviction yesterday, Occupy Wellington supporters came out in droves to watch the All Blacks parade in Civic Square this afternoon.

Signs reading “Occupy Wellington Welcomes the ABs” and “The Official Equality Fanzone” were seen among the crowds, with Occupy supporters providing face painting to other members of the public attending the parade.

A free tea, coffee and orange juice station was set up by the group, providing a welcome sight for fans buffeted by strong winds and rain.

Occupy Wellington supporter and rugby fan Richard was overwhelmed by the positive response from the public, describing the event as a “huge success”.

It was reported yesterday that the occupiers, who have been camped in Civic Square for twelve days as part of the global Occupy movement, would be asked to leave for the parade. This report was quickly updated as supporters of the Occupy group worked closely with senior Council staff to ensure that the camp did not get in the way of the post-RWC festivities.

“I’m very impressed that the Council has been so forthcoming in working with us to ensure that both the Occupy group and the parade could peacefully co-exist in Civic Square” says Isabelle, a supporter of the Occupy movement. “I was more than happy to pitch in and help clean up the ticker tape after the parade”.

Early reports today suggested that the Occupy group may be asked to leave by October 31st because children’s organisation Capital E had booked some of the area for their annual Big Halloween event. However, Capital E’s events organisers and the Occupy group have since been in close contact to ensure that both events can go ahead as planned.

“The team at Capital E have been fantastic, working with us to find the best solution for everybody” says Isabelle.

“We had a great time with the kids down here on Labour Day, and look forward to them again on Halloween. Working to make the world better for future generations is a big part of why I’m here.”

ENDS

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