Police rule out removing Occupy Dunedin

This is a pretty misleading headline.  In fact the police have ruiled out using force against the occupiers because they have given no reason for action to be taken against them - a pretty unique response globally.

The Dunedin City Council doesn’t like it because they want to enforce their by-law, despite a conflict with human rights leglislation

Occupy Dunedin protest intensifies

TVNZ, 9 November

The stand-off between Dunedin City Council and anti-capitalism protestors occupying the Octagon has intensified.

Dunedin police have ruled out enforcing trespass notices to the group issued at the end of October.

Last night police issued a statement saying they do not believe "the council's trespass notice meets the test of balancing the rights and freedoms of all parties".

Police also said they are not aware of any activity by the protestors that would justify police intervention.

"We acknowledge and understand that this occupation is frustrating for both the council and some members of the public," 

Dunedin-Clutha area commander Inspector Greg Sparrow said.

Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull says he is "completely at a loss" after police ruled out taking action.

Protestors are still considering the council's compromise offer of a permanent information kiosk and symbolic tent in exchange for protestors leaving.