Two people charged over distributing an objectionable publication have launched a diatribe outside court, saying the allegations amounted to a "political attack" and calling media "journalistic whores".
Kelvyn Alp and Hannah Spierer, hosts of far-right conspiracy theory website Counterspin Media, appeared in the Christchurch District Court jointly charged that on February 23 this year at Wellington they distributed a documentary deemed an objectionable publication under the Films, Videos and Publications Classifications Act 1993.
Alp, 51, is also charged individually with distributing the documentary.
The pair are also both charged that on August 25 at Christchurch failed without reasonable excuse to assist a person exercising a search power when requested to do so under Section 130(1) of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012.
Spierer, 37, whose address was also listed as Woolston, is also accused of failing to supply fingerprints and a photograph, at Christchurch police station on the same day.
Alp addressed media outside court after his appearance.
"You guys don't like us and we don't like you. That's just a fact. You guys are bought and paid for journalistic whores."
Asked whether he would fight the charges, he said: "I don't need to fight anything. They will take care of themselves."
"We are simply trying to be a voice for the people. What crime is being committed here? What crime?"
Dozens of supporters gathered outside the Christchurch Justice Precinct this morning, including white supremacist Philip Arps, former national director of the New Zealand National Front Kyle Chapman and city mayoral candidate Carl Bromley.
A smaller opposing group held a large sign that read: "Ka Tū Kotahi Tatou - We stand united with Aroha for Our Muslim Whanau".
As the smaller group chanted and sang, they were verbally abused, being called "f****** idiots" and racial comments were made. Journalists were also abused and threatened.
Many people livestreamed the crowds outside court, which were held back by court security staff. Many police officers were just inside the building.
Counterspin Media broadcasts conspiracy theories and discredited Covid-19 misinformation.