RNZ

Police made more arrests this afternoon as they continued to hold the line.

Police said it was disappointing that despite the grounds being officially closed to the public earlier today, a number of protesters are still refusing repeated requests to leave the precinct.

"We continue to acknowledge people's rights to protest, however those who behave unlawfully will face arrest."

Some protesters responded with abuse, haka and hurling objects at officers.

At an unprecedented media briefing this afternoon, Wellington District Commander Superintendent Corrie Parnell said the health and safety of police staff and the public was paramount.

Parnell said two police officers who had been assaulted in today's confrontation with anti-mandate protesters were now recovering.

Police had twice deployed OC spray after officers were pulled into the crowd. He said they were not seriously injured and such behaviour was unacceptable.

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Parnell said that earlier today police saw some weapons such as placards and sticks, as well as a knuckle duster which signalled the sentiment of some of the occupiers.

He said the presence of children was a significant risk factor and that some protesters had placed children in front of adults.

He said police could not control that but could control how they dealt with the children.

"There has never been an occupation of this scale, it's unprecedented and there has to be a measured approach," he said.

Asked how long the occupation would continue Parnell said "my intention is it won't be here for another week".