Anti-lockdown protestors gather outside Nelson Police Station

Sara Hollyman

A group of about 20 people gathered outside Nelson Police Station on Wednesday morning in protest of the Covid-19 response.

Spokesman for the group Mark Thomson says they gathered because they believe police are collaborating with an unlawful government and participating in "crimes against humanity" in enforcing the Covid-19 Health Response Act.

"Requirements of a lockdown, mask wearing and things such as this, this is imposing upon we the people a whole lot of draconian and unlawful, and criminal indeed, actions."

He says they had gathered outside the police station to serve cease and desist orders for them to stand down.

"Their oath of office is to protect us and they are not protecting us they are bringing us into harm."

Mark says initially a sergeant came outside but was not interested in engaging with the group apart from to tell them they "can't gather here".

Nelson Bays Area Commander Paul Borrell was walking between buildings when he was approached by the group and engaged with them.

"We have your message and I will discuss it with my boss but what I need you all to do is disperse and go home because at the moment you are in breach of the Health Act," he said.

He then warned the group that they would have to consider further actions if they didn't leave.

Police commissioner Andrew Coster said in an earlier media briefing that the group was "quickly dispersed by police staff".

He says staff attended protests in Nelson, Tauranga and Auckland today.

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