TPP protest escalates in Dunedin

Protesters jostled with police tonight as they tried to disrupt a National Party fundraising event in Dunedin.

The Trans Pacific Partnership protesters hoped Prime Minister John Key would attempt to walk through one of the public entrances to the Savoy, but he did not appear.

Protesters linked arms to keep party supporters out of the restaurant.

At the Princes St entrance, some supporters pushed their way in or managed to side-step protesters. Others repaired to the Japanese restaurant next door to watch the melee or tried the Moray Pl entrance.

Many were annoyed they could not enter, one telling the Otago Daily Times he respected the right to protest, but "I also have a right to go and have dinner''.

A National party supporter tries to enter the Savoy. Photo / Otago Daily Times

Police closed off part of Princes St and called for reinforcements. It is understood the dog squad was brought to the protest, but was not deployed.

About 100 protesters attended, and were stationed at both entrances to the restaurant, on Moray Pl and Princes St.

Several policeman's hats were flung to the ground by the protesters.

Protesters dispersed about 7.30pm.

It is not known whether any arrests were made.