Wellington City Council to increase security at pride events after Destiny Church protest

By Nick James of RNZ

• Wellington City Council will increase security for pride events after protesters disrupted an Auckland library.
• Mayor Tory Whanau emphasised a co-ordinated approach with CCTV and security teams on standby.
• Prime Minister Christopher Luxon condemned the protesters, stating their actions were unacceptable and un-Kiwi.

Wellington City Council plans to beef up security during pride events in the capital after protesters linked to Destiny Church stormed an Auckland library.

On Saturday a children’s event being hosted by a drag king was cancelled after about 50 protesters pushed their way into Te Atatū library.

Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau said the council would ensure a co-ordinated approach through its CCTV network and established event management plans across community and library centres.

“This integrated approach allows for real-time monitoring, rapid response and proactive measures to prevent disruptions or harmful behaviour.”

Whanau said security teams were also on standby for immediate support when needed.

Destiny Church groups Man Up and Legacy Sisterhood protest against a children's library drag event at Te Atatū Community Centre.

“We continue to work closely across agencies to assess risks and implement preventive strategies, ensuring the city remains a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.”

She said the city stood in solidarity with the rainbow community and it was proud to be recognised as one of the world’s leading destinations for LGBTQ+.

“Hate and bigotry have no home here.

“Let’s work together to make the upcoming Wellington Pride festival a space where everyone feels welcome and supported.”

Last night, acting Waitematā district commander Inspector Simon Walker told the actions of the protesters in Auckland were unacceptable and it was not a peaceful protest.

“In my perspective, of course people have a right to protest, but no one has the right to intimidate and use violence against other people.”

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon condemned Destiny’s behaviour and said the protesters had crossed a line.

“That’s not the Kiwi way, when you’re intimidating public officials and public facilities – that’s not the way we expect things to be in this country.”

Sign up to The Daily H, a free newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.