Part 8 - Demonstrations
Version : 3.0
Detailed table of contents
This part of the ‘Public Order Policing’ chapter contains the following topics:
Executive summary
• Purpose of policing demonstrations
• Riots
• Balancing the rights of citizens
Demonstration related definitions
Industrial disputes
• Introduction
• Who has access to the workplace during an industrial dispute
• Picketers do not have access to the workplace
• No right to prevent others’ access
• Role of Police in times of industrial disputes and strikes
Breach of the peace
• Introduction
• Unlawful act, not an offence
• Preserving the peace
• Preventing a breach of the peace
• Power of arrest
Offences
• Introduction
• Offences relevant to demonstrations
• Arresting and using force
Demonstration command structure
• Planning
• Liaison
• Who takes command of a demonstration?
• Demonstrations that cross district boundaries or are of National Significance
• Planning Officer and Operation Commander
• Liaison Officer
• Other key appointments
• Major demonstrations / Operations of national significance
• Duties of the 2I/C
Operation Commander
• Chain of command
• General duties
• Examining the route of the demonstration
• Planning for the demonstration
• Meeting with those demonstrated against
• Allowing Police photographers at demonstrations
• Tasks during the operation
• Tasks after the operation
Liaison Officer
• Chain of command
• Meeting with demonstration leaders
• Obtaining and evaluating intelligence
• Making regular reports
Scene Commander
• Chain of command
• General duties
• Establishing the ‘Forward Command’
• Communicating with demonstrators and media
• Deploying employees and equipment
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 1 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
• Making a report
Group Commanders
• Chain of command
• General duties
• Initial briefings and consultation
• Tasks during the operation
• Controlling the demonstrators
OC Sections
• Chain of command
• Briefing
• Maintaining watch of the section
• Completing the documentation
• Commendations
Safety Officer
• Chain of command
• Identifying risks
• Preparing risk assessments
• Establishing a hazard management plan
• Monitoring the operation
Complaints Group and Enquiries Group
• Chain of command
• Complaints Group duties
• Enquiries Group duties
Preparing for a demonstration
• Being prepared
• Key preparation areas
Gathering intelligence
• Preparation
• Information about the demonstrators
• Information about possible problems
• National intelligence for major or violent demonstrations
• Briefings
Selecting and deploying personnel
• Planning must be flexible
• Requirement to have sufficient staff
• Selecting personnel
• Orders groups and briefings
- OC spray in crowd situations
- OC spray during demonstrations
- Taser
• Deploying uniformed personnel
• Reserves
• Deploying plain-clothes personnel
• Deployment of Police Dog Sections
Setting up communications
• Maintaining communication with demonstration leaders
• Radios
• Colour coding
• Loud-hailers
• Choosing communicators
Using physical barriers
• Effective barriers
• Visiting the scene to assess requirements
• Putting the barriers in place
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 2 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
• Sterile areas
• Visiting dignitaries
• Ceremonies and functions
• Cordons
Closing roads and working with councils
• Power to close roads
• The route of the demonstration
Procedures at a demonstration
• Maintaining order and respecting the rights of citizens
• Maintaining discipline and exercising restraint
• Arresting
• Staff safety
• Key points
General procedures
• Guidelines
• Directing demonstrators
• Delays to traffic
• Unlawful road blockages
• Picketers entering their workplace
• If probability of harm increases
• Dispersing a demonstration
• After a demonstration has been dispersed
• Documenting incidents and complaints
Arrests
• Considerations
• When arresting
• Using force when arresting
• After the arrest
• Mass arrests
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 3 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Executive summary
This section contains the following topics:
• Purpose of policing demonstrations
• Riots
• Balancing the rights of citizens
This chapter explains the law and procedures relating to the policing of demonstrations.
It relates to all types of demonstrations, including industrial disputes and protests
against domestic and foreign dignitaries.
Note: For further information see ‘VIP Security Planning and Operations’ and ‘Part 9 -
Policing Parliamentary Precincts’.
A critical aspect of policing demonstrations is planning. The chapter also focuses on the
duties and responsibilities of those responsible for managing such operations and the
considerations and procedures involved in preparing for them.
Purpose of policing demonstrations
The purpose of policing demonstrations is to preserve law and order and to protect
people and property from the actions of demonstrators, and demonstrators from people
who are not in sympathy with them.
Riots
Every demonstration has the potential to become violent. Police employees who are
policing demonstrations should therefore familiarise themselves with the legislation and
procedures for riot.
Balancing the rights of citizens
During demonstrations, Police must balance the need to maintain order against the
rights of citizens. Among those rights are:
• freedom of speech
• peaceful demonstration
• security of life and property
• freedom from intimidation or interference.
Key, critical points for staff to note:
• A person breaching the peace may be arrested, however, this is
not an offence.
Alternative offences will need to be identified if charges are laid.
• A demonstration that is unexpected will be managed by the local Communication
Centre until such time as an Incident Controller is on scene.
• Police response to a demonstration that is known about in advance should be
planned and staffed for.
• Early liaison with demonstration leaders may be beneficial to the policing of the
event.
• Any arrests at a demonstration should be made after consideration of the effect the
arrest itself may cause, and whether there are sufficient Police staff to effect the
arrest safely.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 4 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Demonstration related definitions
This table details definitions of terms that are relevant to demonstrations.
Term Definition
Strike
A ‘strike’ is the act of a number of employees discontinuing their
employment, failing to resume or return to their employment,
breaking their employment agreements, or reducing their normal
output. See: Section 81 of the Employment Relations Act 2000.
Lock out
A ‘lock out’ is the act of an employer closing the place of business or
suspending the business or discontinuing the employment of any
employees or failing or refusing to engage employees in work for
which they are usually employed. This is done with a view to
compelling acceptance of employment terms or compliance with the
employer demands. See: Section 82 of the Employment Relations Act
2000.
Picket or
A ‘picket’ is defined in the Concise Oxford Dictionary - Tenth Edition
picketers
1999 - as “the act of a number of employees and others who protest
outside a workplace for the purpose of trying to persuade others not
to enter during a strike”.
The protesting employees and others involved in the protest are
called picketers. The picketers will also protest the grievance for
which they have taken the action.
Disorderly
Under section 5A(1) of the Summary Offences Act 1981, a disorderly
assembly
assembly is an assembly of three or more persons who, in any public
place, assemble in such a manner, or so conduct themselves when
assembled, as to cause a person in the immediate vicinity of the
assembly to fear on reasonable grounds that the persons so
assembled:
• will use violence against persons or property, or
• will commit an offence against section 3 of the Act in that vicinity.
Public place
Under section 2(1) of the Summary Offences Act 1981, ‘public place’
means a place that, at any material time, is open to or is being used
by the public, whether free or on payment of a charge, and whether
any owner or occupier of the place is lawfully entitled to exclude or
eject any person from that place; and includes any aircraft,
hovercraft, ship or ferry or other vessel, train, or vehicle carrying or
available to carry passengers for reward.
Without limiting the definition of the term ‘public place’ in subsection
(1) of this section, for the purposes of this Act, a person is in a public
place if he is in any aircraft, hovercraft, ship or ferry or other vessel,
train, or vehicle, which is in a public place.
Riotous
Riotous behaviour involves force or violence that is likely to cause
behaviour
alarm in at least one person of reasonable firmness and courage
(
Scott v Parkinson & Howard (1912) VLR 389).
Riotous behaviour is more serious than disorderly behaviour, but falls
short of the crime of riot. Because riotous behaviour is also disorderly
behaviour, the charge of riotous behaviour is rarely filed.
Offensive
Offensive behaviour under section 4(1)(a) Summary Offences Act
behaviour
1981 must not just cause offence. The offence must be to such an
extent or of such a kind that it disturbs or disrupts public order
(
Morse v Police [2011] NZSC 45).
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 5 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Threatening
Threatening behaviour has not been defined by the courts. According
behaviour
to the New Zealand Police Legal Section's commentary on the Act, a
threat is “a declaration of an intention to punish or hurt”. If the
person has the power to carry out the threat, the offence becomes an
assault.
Insulting
Insulting behaviour is behaviour that insults and seriously annoys one
behaviour
or more of those present (
O'Connor v Police (1967) NZLR 437).
Disorderly
Disorderly behaviour under section 4(1)(a) of the Summary Offences
behaviour
Act 1981 is behaviour seriously disruptive of public order. It is not
sufficient if the behaviour only annoys others or wounds feelings. A
tendency to annoy others, even seriously, is insufficient to constitute
the disruption to public order which may make restrictions on freedom
of expression necessary.
Disorderly behaviour under section 4(1)(a) of the Summary Offences
Act 1981 is behaviour in or within view of a public place which
substantially disturbs the normal functioning of life in the environs of
that place (
Brooker v Police [2007] NZSC 30).
The behaviour must be more than unmannerly, disturbing, irregular,
inconvenient or exhibitionist. (
Kinney v Police (1971) NZLR 926).
Public way
Under section 22(2) of the Summary Offences Act 1981, ‘public way’
means every road, street, path, mall, arcade, or other way over which
the public has the right to pass and re-pass.
Obstructs
Under section 22(2) of the Summary Offences Act 1981, ‘obstructs’,
in relation to a public way, means unreasonably impedes normal
passage along that way.
Unlawful
In accordance with section 86(1) of the Crimes Act 1961, an unlawful
assembly
assembly is an assembly of three or more persons who, with intent to
carry out any common purpose, assemble in such a manner, or so
conduct themselves when assembled, as to cause persons in the
neighbourhood of the assembly to fear, on reasonable grounds, that
the persons so assembled:
• will use violence against persons or property in that neighbourhood
or elsewhere, or
• will, by that assembly, needlessly and without reasonable cause
provoke other persons to use violence against persons or property
in that neighbourhood;
provided that no one shall be deemed to provoke other persons
needlessly and without reasonable cause by doing or saying anything
that he is lawfully entitled to do or say.
Road
In accordance with section 35(2) of the Policing Act 2008, the term
‘road’ has the meaning given in section 315(1) of the Local
Government Act 1974 except that it includes:
• a motorway, within the meaning of section 2 of the Government
Roading Powers Act 1989, or
• a private road or a private way within the meaning of section
315(1) of the Local Government Act 1974.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 6 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Industrial disputes
This section contains the following topics:
• Introduction
• Who has access to the workplace during an industrial dispute
• Picketers do not have access to the workplace
• No right to prevent others’ access
• Role of Police in times of industrial disputes and strikes
Introduction
Lawful industrial action is an important aspect of bargaining under the Employment
Relations Act 2000. As with other forms of protest, employees have the right to
congregate lawfully to protest about their employment conditions.
The guidelines and procedures in this chapter apply to all types of demonstrations,
including industrial disputes. However, you must understand who has right of access to
the workplace during a strike or lock out.
Who has access to the workplace during an industrial dispute
During an industrial dispute, the Employment Relations Act 2000 (Sections 20 to 25)
provides the right of access to the workplace for certain people, for example, union
representatives and, during a strike, non-striking employees.
Picketers do not have access to the workplace
Picketers do not have right of access to the workplace, but they have the right to
congregate lawfully in a public place to protest.
No right to prevent others’ access
Picketers do not have the right to hinder or prevent others from entering the workplace.
Role of Police in times of industrial disputes and strikes
In times of industrial disputes and strikes Police must:
• ensure that picketers do not forcibly hinder or prevent any person from working at or
exercising any lawful trade, business or occupation
• be mindful of the rights of all persons to freedom of expression, association,
movement and assembly. These rights must be balanced against the need to preserve
law and order
• maintain an attitude of real impartiality and refrain from making comments on the
merit of the demonstration, dispute or strike
• take all reasonable steps to avoid the possibility or perception of sanctioning activities
that breach the law.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 7 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Breach of the peace
This section contains the following topics:
• Introduction
• Unlawful act, not an offence
• Preserving the peace
• Preventing a breach of the peace
• Power of arrest
Introduction
This section briefly covers information on breach of the peace that is relevant to your
role in policing demonstrations. Breach of the peace, when there are demonstrators
involved, usually encompasses misbehaviour by demonstrators that disturbs the public
or causes public unrest.
Unlawful act, not an offence
Breach of the peace is an unlawful act,
not an offence.
Preserving the peace
Preservation of the peace is paramount. Subject to that, police should as far as possible
allow individuals and groups to exercise their rights.
Preventing a breach of the peace
If circumstances indicate that a spontaneous demonstration is likely to occur, or a
managed picket has been reported, you must take all reasonable steps to prevent
breaches of the peace, to protect property and to preserve public order.
Under section 42(1) of the Crimes Act 1961, if you see a breach of the peace you can
interfere to prevent it continuing or restarting. You can use no more force than is
reasonably necessary to stop the breach of the peace continuing or restarting, or than is
reasonably proportionate to the danger likely to result from its continuing or restarting.
Power of arrest
The two provisions under the Crimes Act 1961 that empower you to arrest someone who
has breached the peace are:
• section 42(2), and
• section 315(2)(b).
If you arrest for breach of the peace
If you arrest a person for breach of the peace (remember that breach of the peace is not
an offence), you must:
• give them the rights caution and the Bill of Rights
• not obtain their personal details or take photos or fingerprints, unless you are filing
other charges (they have not been arrested for an offence, so therefore section 32
Policing Act does not apply)
• release the person as soon as practicable if you file no charges.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 8 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Offences
This section contains the following topics:
• Introduction
• Offences relevant to demonstrations
• Arresting and using force
Introduction
A guide to categories of offences can be found in section 6 of the Criminal Procedure Act
2011.
Widely understood definitions for ‘offence’ and ‘crime’ were repealed as one consequence
of major changes introduced by the Criminal Procedure Act 2011. The following informal
definition is intended as a guide and has been drafted with assistance from legal experts.
‘Offence’ and ‘crime’ are words that are used interchangeably in statute, and there is no
material difference between them. They may be described as any act or omission that is
punishable on conviction under any enactment, and are demarcated into four categories
as defined in section 6 of the Criminal Procedure Act 2011.
Offences relevant to demonstrations
These are some of the offences under the Summary Offences Act 1981 and the Crimes
Act 1961 that are relevant to demonstrations:
• Disorderly assembly
• Disorderly behaviour
• Offensive behaviour
• Forcibly hindering
• Obstructing a public way
• Unlawful assembly.
For further information refer to ‘Part 6 - Behaviour offences’ which provides more
detailed information about these offences.
Arresting and using force
You have the power of arrest for all the offences above.
Under section 39 of the Crimes Act 1961, when making, or helping to make, an arrest, a
person is justified in using such force as is necessary to overcome any force used in
resisting, unless the arrest can be made by reasonable means in a less violent manner.
However, except in the case of a constable or a person called on by a constable to help
them, this does not apply where the force used is intended or likely to cause death or
grievous bodily harm.
Under section 41 of the Crimes Act 1961, you are justified in using such force as is
reasonably necessary to prevent the commission of an offence that would be likely to
cause immediate and serious injury to anyone’s person or property.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 9 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Demonstration command structure
This section contains the following topics:
• Planning
• Liaison
• Who takes command of a demonstration?
• Demonstrations that cross district boundaries or are of National Significance
• Planning Officer and Operation Commander
• Liaison Officer
• Other key appointments
• Major demonstrations / Operations of national significance
• Duties of the 2I/C
Planning
A critical requirement for managing a demonstration is planning. Where Police have
advance notice of a demonstration, the District Commander appoints a Planning Officer,
who may become the Operation Commander. This officer is responsible for investigating
the scope and nature of the proposed demonstration and making adequate
arrangements for dealing with it.
Liaison
Liaison is another essential ingredient for effectively policing demonstrations. In
general, Police should try to establish friendly dialogue with groups that demonstrate
frequently, in order to build mutual understanding and break down prejudice.
The Planning Officer must appoint a Liaison Officer at an early stage, to establish good
communications between Police and the demonstration leaders. The Planning Officer or
Operation Commander should meet the people against whom the demonstration is
directed.
Who takes command of a demonstration?
This table details who takes command of a demonstration;
If. . .
then. . .
the demonstration is unexpected and
the Communications Centre takes initial
there is no advance notice
command and control in accordance with
the provisions of this manual until local
command and control is established. The
Communications Centre supervisor
immediately informs senior district field
supervisors of the demonstration.
Note: most demonstrations are first
reported to a Communications Centre
Police receive advance notice of a
the District Commander appoints a
demonstration
Planning Officer.
Demonstrations that cross district boundaries or are of National
Significance
If a demonstration crosses district boundaries (e.g. a hikoi) or is a demonstration of
national significance (high level event), the District Commander of the district where the
demonstration starts will generally lead the command structure throughout the
operation. If the event is a high level event, the National Manager: Response and
Operations must be notified and may assume responsibility (see ‘Inter-district
operations’). That District Commander will consult with the District Commanders whose
districts will be affected by the demonstration to seek their agreement to the command
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 10 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
structure. The Planning Officer, Operation Commander and other key roles will also
generally maintain their roles throughout the demonstration.
Planning Officer and Operation Commander
The Planning Officer is responsible to the District Commander, and, following the
planning stage, may become the Operation Commander.
The Planning Officer is responsible for investigating the scope and nature of the
proposed demonstration and making adequate arrangements for dealing with it. Their
duties and responsibilities are listed with those of the Operation Commander.
Liaison Officer
A Liaison Officer is appointed by the Planning Officer and is responsible to the Planning
Officer and/or Operation Commander.
Other key appointments
Planning will dictate what type of organisation is necessary, but most demonstrations
require these appointments:
• 2 I/C: responsible to the Operation Commander
• Scene Commander: responsible to the Operation Commander
• Group Commanders: responsible to the Scene Commander
• O/C Sections: responsible to Group Commanders
• Safety Officer: responsible to the Operation Commander.
Major demonstrations / Operations of national significance
For major demonstrations, the Operation Commander should establish:
• a Complaints Group under the command of an Inspector (or higher position)
• an Enquiries Group under the command of a senior CIB employee.
Duties of the 2I/C
The 2I/C establishes the Operation Headquarters and achieves the Headquarters Group’s
objectives.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 11 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Operation Commander
This section contains the following topics:
• Chain of command
• General duties
• Examining the route of the demonstration
• Planning for the demonstration
• Meeting with those demonstrated against
• Allowing Police photographers at demonstrations
• Tasks during the operation
• Tasks after the operation
Chain of command
The Operation Commander is appointed by, and responsible to, the District Commander.
General duties
The Operation Commander should:
• direct, co-ordinate and control the operation
• appoint a Liaison Officer
• appoint a 2 I/C, if necessary
• appoint a Safety Officer
• assess the situation
• give regular SITREPS to the District Commander (or District Commanders if the
demonstration crosses district boundaries) and to the National Operation Commander,
where one is appointed
• establish policy on news releases.
Examining the route of the demonstration
Discuss the route of the demonstration with the local authority, having regard to public
inconvenience, likely target premises and the availability of exits in the event of
dispersal. Once the route is approved, contact public transport operators and the
occupiers of premises.
Planning for the demonstration
Take these issues into account when planning for policing a demonstration:
• Be familiar with sections within this chapter relating to ‘Rights of citizens’,
‘Maintaining order and respecting the rights of citizens’, and ‘Maintaining discipline
and exercising restraint’. Mention of these sections must be made at any Orders
Group
• Be familiar with policing demonstrations against visiting VIPs in the ‘VIP Security
Planning and Operations’ chapter - searches and checks/demonstrations against
visiting VIPs. In particular protecting the dignity of VIPs, barriers, and obstructing
demonstrators view
• The command structure and the expertise needed to make it work
• The format and content of orders groups and briefings. Forward a copy of the
Operation Order to the Supervisor of the appropriate Communications Centre
• Intelligence gathering and analysis. For major operations, discuss this with the District
Manager: Intelligence
• The appointment of an Intel Officer to supervise observers – Field Intelligence
Officers (FIOs) or uniformed employees in plain clothes - who will mix with the crowd,
noting anything of concern and gathering evidence
• The involvement of ICT employees in communications planning
• A media liaison policy that sets out clearly who is permitted to make statements
• Assistance from Workforce management
• Personnel deployment boards and plotting tables
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 12 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
• Support employees and logistic help. Tell the District Commander your requirements
as soon as possible so that arrangements can be made
• Employee welfare and safety
• Adequate contingency planning and reserves. These do not include incident and
enquiry patrols who carry out their normal duties
• Control lines and physical barriers, having regard to likely or known critical points
• Training in the use of pressure point control techniques (PPCT) for any employees
who may carry out mass arrests
• Use of RIOD (Real-time Intelligence for Operational Deployment)
Meeting with those demonstrated against
The Planning Officer and/or Operation Commander should meet the people against
whom the demonstration is directed and:
• obtain details of any threats against them or their premises
• tell them what the demonstrators are likely to do and, if it seems appropriate to
divulge the information, what Police plan to do about it
• find out anything that could facilitate effective Police planning.
Allowing Police photographers at demonstrations
Police photographers using still or video cameras should be deployed only on the
authority of the Operation Commander and where the prevailing circumstances indicate
a probability of disorder.
Other than for training purposes, photographs or video taken at demonstrations should
be destroyed once the reasons for which they were taken ends. For procedures and
timeframes for the destruction of photo and video records see NZ Police ‘Disposal and
Retention Schedule’.
Tasks during the operation
During the operation, carry out these tasks.
Step Action
1
Direct, co-ordinate and control the operation.
2
Identify priorities and critical points as early as possible and re-assess them
regularly.
3
Re-deploy personnel as required.
4
Take up a position from which you can best command and influence the
conduct of the operation.
5
Ensure that your 2 I/C stands in when you are absent from headquarters. The
2 I/C should be fully briefed and have means of communication.
6 Ensure
that:
• a log of all messages sent and received is maintained at Operation
Headquarters utilising RIOD
• those messages are properly actioned
• the District Commander is kept informed.
7
Provide regular media releases.
Tasks after the operation
Debrief all key personnel as soon as possible, in order to:
• extract lessons from the operation that may be applied to future demonstrations
• recommend to the National Manager: Response and Operations any necessary
alterations to Police Policy.
When large numbers are involved, O/C Sections and other employees whose attendance
at the debrief is considered unnecessary could use a debrief form prepared in advance.
In any event, supervisors should debrief their own employees. See: ‘Debriefs’ chapter.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 13 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Liaison Officer
This section contains the following topics:
• Chain of command
• Meeting with demonstration leaders
• Obtaining and evaluating intelligence
• Making regular reports
Chain of command
The Liaison Officer is responsible to the Planning Officer and Operation Commander.
Meeting with demonstration leaders
The Liaison Officer should meet with the demonstration leaders and:
• let them know that Police recognise and respect their right to demonstrate, but have
to consider the rights of the community and ensure that the demonstration remains
within the law
• explain the Police:
- policy on demonstrations
- role during the demonstration
- expectations of the demonstrators
• encourage the leaders to enforce discipline themselves; for example, by appointing
marshals
• arrange and clarify the demonstration’s duration, assembly points, routes, dispersal
points and procedures for deputations (ensure the demonstrators apply for a permit)
• document all conversations, particularly when agreements are reached or restrictions
are placed on the demonstrators
• try not to change any agreements made with the demonstrators. If an agreement
must be changed, tell them why as soon as possible.
Note: The Planning Officer or Operation Commander meets with the people against
whom the demonstration is directed.
Obtaining and evaluating intelligence
Evaluate the degree of organisation, discipline and hostility among the demonstration
leaders and their followers. Find out anything that could facilitate effective Police
planning. See: ‘Gathering intelligence’.
Making regular reports
Regularly report information to the Planning Officer and Operation Commander.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 14 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Scene Commander
This section contains the following topics:
• Chain of command
• General duties
• Establishing the ‘Forward Command’
• Communicating with demonstrators and media
• Deploying employees and equipment
• Making a report
Chain of command
The Scene Commander is responsible to the Operation Commander.
General duties
The Scene Commander:
• directs, co-ordinates and controls Police activities at the scene
• is responsible for briefing Group Commanders
• ensures that there is a high degree of teamwork.
Establishing the ‘Forward Command’
The Scene Commander must:
• establish an accessible ‘Forward Command’ Headquarters, preferably overlooking the
event. If the demonstration is mobile, the headquarters may also need to be mobile
and must have communications
• staff the headquarters adequately. It must be guarded by personnel or Police dogs
and have a communicator and log keeper
• ensure that a 2 I/C stands in when they are absent from the headquarters. The 2 I/C
must be fully briefed and have means of immediate communication
• ensure that effective communication is maintained between the Command Post,
Group Commanders and Operation Commander
• supply the Operation Commander with accurate information on the progress of events
and likely developments.
Communicating with demonstrators and media
The Scene Commander must:
• meet the demonstration leaders or co-ordinators when they first assemble, if
appropriate, and maintain friendly contact during the demonstration. It is helpful to
have the Liaison Officer present when you do this
• establish good relations with media representatives. Do not restrict their movements,
unless they are likely to hinder the operation or are seeking access to ‘secure areas’.
News releases must be made in accordance with the Operation Commander’s policy.
Deploying employees and equipment
The Scene Commander must:
• deploy employees early to ensure that the demonstrators follow the designated route
and do not create disorder or commit other offences
• make equipment available; for example, bins, barricades, ropes, floodlights, loud-
hailers, binoculars, situation maps, fire extinguishers and bolt cutters
• identify priorities and critical points and reassess them regularly
• re-deploy personnel allocated to Group Commanders as required. Reserves should be
constantly ready
• except in exceptional circumstances, deploy personnel with protective equipment only
in accordance with policies and procedures and at the direction of the Operation
Commander. The deployment of personnel with protective equipment must be in
accordance with ‘Part 11 – Public Order Protective Equipment’.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 15 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
• avoid becoming physically involved in arresting or restraining suspects
• after consulting the Operation Commander, ensure that section personnel are given
breaks as required. Rotate static personnel regularly during long operations
• ensure that video operators and Police photographers act (see: Allowing Police
photographers at demonstrations).
Making a report
Report in writing (utilising RIOD) to the Operation Commander as soon as possible after
the operation, detailing:
• the number of demonstrators and their activities
• the Police action taken, number of arrests and nature of offences
• any problems encountered.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 16 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Group Commanders
This section contains the following topics:
• Chain of command
• General duties
• Initial briefings and consultation
• Tasks during the operation
• Controlling the demonstrators
Chain of command
Group Commanders are responsible to the Scene Commander.
General duties
Group Commanders are in charge of the different aspects of the operation, such as:
• demonstrators
• crowd control
• traffic control
• criminal intelligence and investigation.
Initial briefings and consultation
Each Group Commander must:
• brief O/C Sections on procedures and tactics and, where time permits, begin training
in the use of those tactics
• direct the sections, each of which should comprise no more than five constables under
the supervision of a Sergeant or Senior Sergeant
• consult the Scene Commander in deploying the sections and assigning responsibilities
to each.
Tasks during the operation
Each Group Commander must:
• ensure that the directions given to section leaders are clear, concise and strictly
obeyed. This also applies to the officers in charge of reserves
• ensure that all uniformed constables are wearing their issued register numbers or
name plates in the appropriate place on their uniform (see: Uniform, dress standards
and appearance)
• ensure that the sections concentrate on the major disorder and are not dissipated by
minor disturbances. Be alert to developing situations and try to anticipate likely
problems. Advise the Scene Commander of the situation
• be in a position to closely supervise the activities of the sections
• avoid becoming physically involved in arresting or restraining suspects
• ensure that constables making arrests are protected and not encircled by the crowd.
Controlling the demonstrators
Each Group Commander must:
• be familiar with sections within this chapter relating to ‘Rights of citizens’, ‘Maintaining
order and respecting the rights of citizens’, and ‘Maintaining discipline and exercising
restraint’ (mention of these sections must be made at any Orders Group)
• be familiar with policing demonstrations against visiting VIPs in the ‘VIP Security
Planning and Operations’ chapter - searches and checks/demonstrations against
visiting VIPs (in particular protecting the dignity of VIPs, barriers, and obstructing
demonstrators view)
• position uniformed constables around moving demonstrators when necessary. Such
personnel should indicate whether Police instructions can be heard. Mobile reserves
can move parallel to the march and converge on trouble spots
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 17 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
• keep demonstrators out of restricted areas with barricades or skirmish lines, or re-
direct their movement. Backup personnel should support the forward line and deal
with demonstrators that break through it. Access to a public place should be denied
only when it is believed on reasonable grounds to be necessary to:
- prevent immediate or serious danger to people or damage to property, or a serious
breach of the peace, or
- maintain a reasonable passage for vehicles and pedestrians
• ensure that demonstrators are able to exit or avoid a restricted area
• maintain definite and clearly understood boundaries for crowd control. A likely
demonstration target, such as a building, should have two cordons in case one of
them is breached.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 18 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
O/C Sections
This section contains the following topics:
• Chain of command
• Briefing
• Maintaining watch of the section
• Completing the documentation
• Commendations
Chain of command
The O/C Sections are responsible to the Group Commanders.
Briefing
As an O/C Section you must brief personnel about demonstration policies, procedures
and tactics.
Maintaining watch of the section
As an O/C Section you must:
• maintain a position that allows maximum control over the section. When controlling
demonstrators, stand immediately behind your section
• remain with the section to ensure its discipline and unity
• ensure that all uniformed constables are wearing their issued register numbers
• keep constables facing the demonstrators
• avoid becoming physically involved in arresting or restraining prisoners
• advise the Group Commander if further help is needed
• ensure that each constable of the section complies with demonstration policies and
procedures. Counsel, or order from the scene, any constables who contravene those
principles or lose emotional control. Major lapses must be reported in writing.
Completing the documentation
Make sure that Constables who have made arrests report at the station as soon as
possible to complete the Scene and Station Process Form (POL 127) or sign the
Custody/Charge Sheet (POL 173).
Commendations
Provide a written report to the Group Commander on any section Constable who has
shown extraordinary ability in preventing disorder and coping with problems.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 19 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Safety Officer
This section contains the following topics:
• Chain of command
• Identifying risks
• Preparing risk assessments
• Establishing a hazard management plan
• Monitoring the operation
Chain of command
The Safety Officer is responsible to the Operation Commander.
Identifying risks
Monitor all aspects of the operation and identify safety risks (hazards) that must be
addressed to ensure the operation meets the requirements placed on Police under
relevant Health and Safety legislation.
Preparing risk assessments
Prepare formal risk assessments on safety issues to form part of the operation plan and
orders. Inform the Operation Commander and relevant group, squad and section O/Cs of
all risks and possible solutions so the risks identified can be eliminated, isolated or
minimised.
Establishing a hazard management plan
Establish a hazard management plan for the operation. It must allow a means for
operational employees who identify hazards to bring these to formal notice and have
them addressed.
Monitoring the operation
Actively monitor operational activities to identify any hazards not originally detected and
ensure that they are managed.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 20 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Complaints Group and Enquiries Group
This section contains the following topics:
• Chain of command
• Complaints Group duties
• Enquiries Group duties
Chain of command
Complaints Group The Complaints Group is under the command of an Inspector (or
higher position)
Enquiries Group
The Enquiries Group is under the command of a senior CIB
employee.
Complaints Group duties
The Complaints Group;
• observes the demonstration and takes prompt action on any complaint against Police
• is separate from the constables who are policing the demonstration. Its commander
must be fully briefed on the operation and have a copy of the outline plan and
Operation Orders.
Enquiries Group duties
The Enquiries Group;
• investigates any offences committed by the demonstrators or people opposed to the
demonstrators, so that the constables policing the demonstration are not taken away
from their specific tasks
• should not investigate minor behaviour offences, but should concentrate instead on
the more serious offences such as assault and criminal damage
• must be separate from the Complaints Group and the constables who are policing the
demonstration.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 21 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Preparing for a demonstration
This section contains the following topics:
• Being prepared
• Key preparation areas
Being prepared
Being prepared is essential to policing a demonstration effectively. All available
intelligence must be gathered and suitable employees and equipment deployed well
before the demonstration begins.
Adopt a flexible, non-confrontational strategy and, if possible, establish constructive
communication with the demonstration organisers.
Key preparation areas
These are the key areas of preparation:
• gathering intelligence
• selecting and deploying personnel
• setting up communications
• using physical barriers
• closing roads.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 22 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Gathering intelligence
This section contains the following topics:
• Preparation
• Information about the demonstrators
• Information about possible problems
• National intelligence for major or violent demonstrations
• Briefings
Preparation
To manage a demonstration effectively, you must be prepared. Gather and analyse all
the relevant information before the demonstration.
Information about the demonstrators
Find out;
• who the members of the demonstrating group are, and their:
- ages
- how many in the group
- temperament
- affiliations (such as to gangs or groups known to incite violence)
• details and travel plans, of any demonstrators travelling in from outside the local area
and of any opposing groups
• who the organisers, leaders and speakers are
• the aim of the demonstration
• its assembly point, route, time and probable duration
• what activities and tactics are planned, and the degree of organisation.
Information about possible problems
Find out:
• if disorder or other offending is likely in the light of any previous experience with the
same group
• the nature of the venue, including the location of buildings or facilities that may be
attacked, such as embassies or Police stations; and how easily they could fall under
the demonstrators’ control
• the possibility of routes being cut off, preventing Police access to the scene
• the availability of potential weapons
• what other factors will be involved, such as pedestrian and motor traffic, and crowds.
National intelligence for major or violent demonstrations
The District Intelligence Office must obtain accurate intelligence before the
demonstration and pass it on.
If the demonstration is likely to be major or violent, obtain the assistance of the District
Intelligence Manager, who will arrange national intelligence gathering through the
District Intelligence Office, particularly if the protest is national or demonstrators from
another district are expected.
An Intelligence Liaison Officer should be based at Operation Headquarters to keep the
Operation Commander informed. Where possible, an Intelligence Analyst should be
utilised to monitor information and to keep the Operation Commander and Intelligence
Liaison Officer informed.
Demonstration leaders and other principal demonstrators should be monitored and
Operation Headquarters informed of their activities.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 23 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Briefings
Intelligence briefings are important. In order to take appropriate action, personnel must
have information about the demonstrators’:
• number
• demeanour
• activities
• tactics.
Where Police are protecting VIPs, the Operation Commander should ensure that those
constables receive separate briefings.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 24 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Selecting and deploying personnel
This section contains the following topics:
• Planning must be flexible
• Requirement to have sufficient staff
• Selecting personnel
• Orders groups and briefings
- OC spray in crowd situations
- OC spray during demonstrations
- Taser
• Deploying uniformed personnel
• Reserves
• Deploying plain-clothes personnel
• Deployment of Police Dog Sections
Planning must be flexible
Personnel requirements will differ from one demonstration to another. Planning must be
flexible enough to meet any realistic contingency. Unforeseen circumstances may mean
that employees have to be called back.
Requirement to have sufficient staff
When a demonstration occurs Police should provide sufficient personnel to effectively
monitor the activity and provide regular assessment reports to the officer in charge.
Selecting personnel
Personnel selection must take into account individual abilities and skills and not be based
on availability alone.
Those in command should be able to exercise firm control and show initiative in
assessing priorities. They should know to tell the Operation Commander when personnel
allocated to them become surplus to requirements.
Group Commanders should have someone to record orders and directions, so that they
can concentrate on commanding the operation.
Orders groups and briefings
Always include ‘Use of Tactical Options’ in orders and briefings and indicate that only
reasonable force may be used. Remind employees of the Tactical Options and refer them
especially to the policies and procedures around:
• use of force and tactical options
• trachea holds (forbidden)
• handcuffs and other restraints
• use of OC spray
• use of Taser.
OC spray in crowd situations
As a general rule, OC spray should not normally be used in crowd situations. However, it
can be used against more than one person at a time if circumstances justify.
See: ‘Oleoresin capsicum spray’ chapter.
OC spray during demonstrations
OC spray must not to be carried by constables rostered for duty at demonstrations
unless specifically authorised by a District Commander.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 25 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Taser
The Taser must not be carried by Constables rostered for duty at demonstrations.
Remind constables that Police behaviour can often determine the course of a
demonstration. Over-reaction by constables can provoke disorder.
Final written orders should be prepared as late as possible to ensure that they are up to
date, but they must be delivered in time for other commanders to prepare their
briefings.
After an Orders Group, Scene Commanders and Group Commanders must make their
own plans and give their orders and briefings.
When support personnel arrive from other regions or districts, the Operation Commander
should direct the 2 I/C to fully brief these personnel. This allows the Operation
Commander to concentrate on planning and command. In some cases, a Logistics Officer
may be able to carry out this role.
Deploying uniformed personnel
The facts will indicate the type of coverage required. A minor, passive demonstration
may require only a token force or none at all.
When the demonstration is large and likely to be disorderly, an early display of strength
may discourage disorder by showing that Police can cope with any situation. Such
displays should otherwise be avoided.
Personnel in protective equipment should not be used merely as a display of force, or
without good reason.
Reserves
Unneeded personnel should be withdrawn, but reserves should always be close by. The
success of the operation may depend on the ability of the Operation Commander or
Scene Commander to rapidly deploy reserves. If Group Commanders are overstaffed,
they must tell the Operation Commander so that redeployment can take place.
Generally, the principle of minimum deployment and maximum reserve applies.
Reserves may be static or mobile, but should always be mobile for a mobile
demonstration.
Deploying plain-clothes personnel
Personnel dressed similarly to the demonstrators can gather intelligence and sometimes
deter offending. They should be deployed at the front and sides of the group rather than
at the back, where they are less able to identify people. They can also be used for
internal building security.
Deployment of Police Dog Sections
See ‘Demonstrations’ in the ‘General information for Police employees about Police dogs’
chapter.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 26 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Setting up communications
This section contains the following topics:
• Maintaining communication with demonstration leaders
• Radios
• Colour coding
• Loud-hailers
• Choosing communicators
Maintaining communication with demonstration leaders
Good communications are essential to effectively managing a demonstration. The liaison
officer maintains communication and liaison with the demonstration leaders. For details
about what should be communicated to the demonstrators, see Liaison Officer.
Radios
Technical Services staff should be involved in planning, and should test the radios before
the operation. Portable radios, where available, should be issued to:
• Group and Scene Commanders and their 2 I/Cs
• O/C Sections
• Sergeants/Senior Sergeants in charge at static positions
• Constables.
Colour coding
Colour-code equipment for large operations.
Loud-hailers
Consider using loud-hailers, both by hand and on car roofs at the front and rear of the
march. Mounting loud-hailers on the roofs of Police vehicles increases their range, which
is important for large demonstrations.
Choosing communicators
Base the selection of headquarters and field command communicators on their ability to
communicate orders clearly and work under pressure.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 27 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Using physical barriers
This section contains the following topics:
• Effective barriers
• Visiting the scene to assess requirements
• Putting the barriers in place
• Sterile areas
• Visiting dignitaries
• Ceremonies and functions
• Cordons
Effective barriers
Barriers must be secured to each other and to the ground in order to contain the
demonstrators. If they are not secured, they will probably be ineffective against
aggressive demonstrators and may be used as a weapon against Police. Water-filled
barriers are especially effective as a barrier.
Visiting the scene to assess requirements
Operation and Scene Commanders should visit the scene well in advance to assess
barricade requirements. The position of barriers should be shown on plans and stated at
orders groups and briefings.
Putting the barriers in place
Physical barriers should be in place well before the demonstration and continuously
staffed thereafter. This allows Police to retain the initiative.
Sterile areas
Physical barriers should create a sterile area around any place to which the
demonstrators will be denied access.
Visiting dignitaries
When a demonstration is staged against a domestic or foreign dignitary, Police should
create a sterile area to allow the dignitary and their vehicle to pass unhindered. Physical
barriers may be used for this purpose and for security and tactical purposes. They must
not be deployed solely to prevent the protestors being visible to the dignitary.
Note: Demonstrators can be removed out of sight of the dignitary or have their view
deliberately obstructed only if their behaviour is disorderly or personally offensive and
humiliating to the dignitary. See ‘VIP Security Planning and Operations’ chapter -
specifically the section on ‘Obstructing demonstrators’ view’.
The dignitary’s physical protection must take precedence over the rights of
demonstrators and be in proportion to the assessed risk. In some circumstances, it will
be necessary to keep demonstrators beyond missile-throwing distance.
Note: For more information on policing a demonstration against a visiting dignitary, see
the ‘Crowd control’ section in the ‘VIP Security Planning and Operations’ chapter of the
Police Manual, and ‘Part 9 - Policing parliamentary precincts’ of this chapter.
Ceremonies and functions
Keep demonstrators away from the general public at ceremonies or functions. This
should be considered in the pre-planning stage and the demonstration leaders informed.
Cordons
For information on cordons, see the ‘Perimeter control’ chapter of the Police Manual.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 28 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Closing roads and working with councils
This section contains the following topics:
• Power to close roads
• The route of the demonstration
Power to close roads
Where a constable has reason to believe that, at or near that place:
• there is existing or imminent public disorder, or
• there is, or may reasonably be expected to be, danger to any member of the public,
or
• an offence punishable by 10 or more years imprisonment has been committed or
discovered at or near that place,
the Constable can;
• close for as long as reasonably necessary
- any road at, or leading to or from, or in the vicinity of, that place, or
- any part of such a road
• to all traffic or specific type of traffic (including pedestrian traffic).
See: Section 35 of the Policing Act 2008.
The route of the demonstration
Discuss the route of the demonstration with the local authority, having regard to public
inconvenience, likely target premises and the availability of exits in the event of
dispersal. Once the route is approved, contact public transport operators and the
occupiers of premises. Consider contacting the media to inform the public of any
potential traffic delays.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 29 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Procedures at a demonstration
This section contains the following topics:
• Maintaining order and respecting the rights of citizens
• Maintaining discipline and exercising restraint
• Arresting
• Staff safety
• Key points
Maintaining order and respecting the rights of citizens
Police’s paramount duty is to preserve the peace. Subject to that, Constables should as
far as possible allow individuals and groups to exercise their rights.
Maintaining discipline and exercising restraint
In policing demonstrations, Constables must:
• maintain team work and discipline
• exercise tact, tolerance and restraint
• remain impartial
• use their powers reasonably and properly.
Arresting
Constables should look at each offence in context and be flexible. They should decide
whether or not the offence will cause further disorder if unchecked. Prosecution by
summons may be preferable to immediate arrest.
Arrests must be conducted at the discretion of the Operation Commander or Scene
Commander
Staff safety
Constables must advise the Safety Officer of any safety risks beyond those they have
already been briefed on and ensure that these risks are managed in an appropriate
manner.
Key points
These are the key points:
• General procedures
• Arrests.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 30 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
General procedures
This section contains the following topics:
• Guidelines
• Directing demonstrators
• Delays to traffic
• Unlawful road blockages
• Picketers entering their workplace
• If probability of harm increases
• Dispersing a demonstration
• After a demonstration has been dispersed
• Documenting incidents and complaints
Guidelines
When policing demonstrations you must always:
• recognise people’s right to demonstrate peacefully
• be tactful, tolerant and restrained. Do not respond to any tactics designed to draw
you into hasty or imprudent remarks or actions
• be, and be seen to be, impartial. Do not comment on the merits, or otherwise, of the
demonstration
• wear your uniform register number or name plate at all times (see ‘Uniform, dress
standards and appearance’)
• work with the team - demonstration duty requires teamwork and no matter how
skilled you may be, you will be relatively ineffective if you try to work alone
• be aware of your own safety and the safety of staff around you. Remember the
maxim “
Maximise Safety, Minimise Risk”.
Directing demonstrators
Follow these steps to give directions to demonstrators.
Step Action
1
Make sure that the directions are clear and courteous.
2
Avoid using words that may be construed as threatening.
3
Give directions in whatever way is appropriate.
4
Communicate through the demonstration leaders if you can, but if not,
address the group yourself.
5
Repeat the directions several times, if necessary, and allow a reasonable time
for the demonstrators to comply.
6
Make sure that those at the back can hear. Use a loud-hailer if you need to.
7
If demonstrators do not respond, tell them the consequences, such as arrest
or dispersal.
Note: Demonstrators often claim not to have heard the directions and use
this as a reason for non-compliance. Police placed behind and beside the
demonstrators can signal that they have heard the directions themselves, and
so negate this claim.
Delays to traffic
If traffic is being delayed by the demonstration, use the media to inform the public of the
delays.
Unlawful road blockages
When a demonstration occurs, you:
• should ensure there is no unlawful blockage of any public way or road as a
consequence of any protest
• ensure that road traffic cannot enter the area unless controlled
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 31 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
• arrange for public media notification of blockages to reroute traffic for the duration
required
• ensure any vehicles being driven nearby are directed as to route and speed
• assess whether the demonstrators’ activities reasonably impede normal passage
• ensure activity that amounts to deliberate and persistent obstruction of the roadway
is occurring, before taking action to unblock a roadway
• warn demonstrator leaders of the implications of their activities, and that their right to
protest must be balanced with the public’s use of the thoroughfare.
Picketers entering their workplace
While on strike, picketers have no right to enter their workplace. If they proceed to enter
or are found in their workplace, the employer or representative should trespass the
picketers in the first instance.
The status of workers during such situations may not always be apparent and if you
become involved in policing the picket, they should keep the picketers’ advocates
informed. Should an employer prefer not to encounter picketers who are trespassing,
and provide written authority for Police to act on their behalf, you must inform the
advocates of this authority.
See: ‘Trespass’ chapter.
If probability of harm increases
Where there is an escalation of activity among picketers or protesters that indicates an
increased probability of harm occurring, or harm has occurred to any protester or any
member of the public, consider taking all reasonable steps in consultation with picket
managers and organisers to dissolve or disperse some or all of the picketers or
protesters from the immediate area.
Dispersing a demonstration
When making the decision to disperse a demonstration, first apply TENR. Ensure that
there is a necessity to take action and that the action is lawful and proportionate. When
the decision is made to disperse a demonstration, the Scene Commander should follow
these steps.
Step Action
1
Ask the picket managers or demonstration leaders to disperse the protesters.
2
If they refuse, or their attempts to disperse the protesters are unsuccessful,
inform the demonstrators in a clear manner that they are required to
disperse.
3
If this is unsuccessful, give directions to Group Commanders to disperse the
demonstrators, and ensure appropriate equipment is made available to the
sections engaged on demonstration duty.
The Group Commanders must then brief the O/C Sections on procedures and tactics.
See also: ‘Scene Commander’ and ‘Group Commanders’.
After a demonstration has been dispersed
When the demonstration has been dispersed, the O/C Section must, where possible,
liaise with picket managers and organisers to outline issues arising from the protest and
to determine the picketers’ intentions in respect of any planned future activity.
Documenting incidents and complaints
Incidents seen but not dealt with, and complaints, should be documented as soon as
possible after the event.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 32 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
Arrests
This section contains the following topics:
• Considerations
• When arresting
• Using force when arresting
• After the arrest
• Mass arrests
Considerations
Before you arrest, you should take into account:
• whether the arrest itself might cause disorder
• the number of Constables available
• location of suspect(s)
• the seriousness of the offence
• whether or not the offence will cause further disorder if unchecked.
• Consider the use of Photography section to video the actual arrest.
Look at each offence in context and be flexible. Prosecution by summons may be
preferable to immediate arrest. Do not arrest for language offences or disorderly
behaviour, unless a breach of the peace is likely to result. Slowness in obeying orders
does not constitute obstruction. Do not single out a demonstration leader for arrest
simply because that person is a leader.
Tell the person you will arrest them if they do not leave, and allow them to do so. Often,
a person has been misled by others about the consequences of actions, or does not
realise the implications of arrest.
When arresting
When arresting:
• tell people why they are being arrested
• if demonstrators are female, when practicable, try to have them arrested by, or in the
presence of, a female constable (subsequent search must be by a female constable or
AO)
• Ensure you work in pairs for any arrests made
Caution: It may be unwise to enter the demonstrating group to effect an arrest.
Using force when arresting
When using force to make an arrest, remember these points:
• Use only sufficient force to make the arrest
• Work in pairs or three’s. In most cases, use of three constables are needed to make
an arrest – two for restraint purposes, one to ensure safety of the arresting officers;
more tend to be a hindrance
• Do not congregate around a struggle. Excess numbers of constables dealing with one
demonstrator weakens the Police lines
Note: If force is used, all personnel should be debriefed and Tactical Options Reports are
required.
After the arrest
After the arrest you must:
• be prepared to prove who was arrested where and when, and to give full details of the
offence
• make written notes as soon as possible after each arrest so that you can give
accurate evidence in court
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 33 of 34
Part 8 - Demonstrations, Continued…
Version : 3.0
• tell your supervisor about identified suspects who have not been arrested. They will
decide whether to initiate summons procedures.
Mass arrests
Mass arrests should be made only with the consent of the Operation Commander or, in
their absence, the Scene Commander. There must be:
• no other reasonable solution
• no likelihood of greater disorder as a result
• the means to make the arrests.
Where practicable, arrests should be for individual offending. When large numbers
contribute to disorder it may not be possible to establish a common purpose for charges
of riot or unlawful assembly except through the activities of many individuals. All
constables should record the activities of individuals who may be leading the disorder.
See also: ‘Part 10 - Mass arrest planning’ in this chapter and the ‘Arrest and detention’
chapter in the Police Manual.
This is an uncontrolled document printed for reference only.
The controlled document can be found in the Police Instructions site which is accessible via the New Zealand Police Intranet.
Page 34 of 34
