Aerial protest over Iraq as Cup boats head out

12.55pm

A giant banner protesting against a possible United States-led strike on Iraq was flown over Auckland this morning as the city prepared for the opening race of yachting's America's Cup.

The banner, measuring 18m by 6m and tied behind a fixed-wing aircraft, bore the words "No War, Peace Now".

Greenpeace spokesman Robbie Kelman said the plane would remain in the air for two hours until about midday.

Its sweeps over the harbour were timed to coincide with the departure of the two America's Cup yachts -- Team New Zealand's NZL82 and Alinghi's SUI64 -- for the Hauraki Gulf race course.

Today has been designated the International Day of Action to Stop the War on the People of Iraq, and Mr Kelman said flying the banner was the start of activities throughout New Zealand.

"Millions of people around the world are rallying today to say no to war and New Zealand is the first country to send this message," Mr Kelman said.

"Countries like New Zealand must add their weight to efforts for a peaceful solution to this crisis."

Also in Auckland, anti-war protesters marched up Queen St, setting off from Queen Elizabeth II Square on the waterfront just after midday.

Protesters carried signs bearing slogans that included "Stop the war on Iraq", "Green not khaki", "Leash the dogs of war" and "Jamaicans against war".

There were also blunter messages for the American government, such as "Bugga off bully boy Bush" and "F... the war on Iraq".

The marchers, chanting slogans such as "One, two, three, four, we don't want your bloody war!" and "No blood for oil!" made their way to Myers Park, about 1.5km away, for a peace rally.

The Auckland march and rally was one of 18 held in centres around the country from Whangarei to Dunedin.

A silent peace vigil outside the Quaker Meeting House in Mt Eden and a Peace in the Park concert at Potters Park in Balmoral will follow tomorrow.