When organising a protest, you may need prior permission from the Council.
Council bylaws might apply to planned protests
When organising a protest, you may need prior permission from the Council. This is because Council bylaws might apply. These bylaws seek to manage activities in public places to ensure the public’s enjoyment of these spaces is not unreasonably affected.
To make enquiries whether your proposed protest needs prior permission from the Council please email CSandTriage@ccc.govt.nz. You can also contact our customer services team if you need more information about how to seek prior permission on 03-941-8999.
When you enquire, we will need you to include all of the following information:
- Name and contact details of protest organiser(s)
- What the protest is about
- The proposed date and time of the protest activity
- A simple map of the proposed route and/or assembly place
- The expected numbers
- Likely types of noise generated (e.g. chanting, amplified noise, etc.)
- Any proposed structures (e.g. tents, gazebos, etc.)
- Any other proposed activities (please include everything).
Note that overnight occupation of public spaces will not be given permission.
Permission should be sought from the Council at least five working days before the protest starts.
The Council is mindful of the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. However, we also need to manage these activities so that they do not infringe on the public’s freedom of movement by preventing them from using a road or other public space.
In addition, as protests may involve some noise, there is an obligation on the organisers to take the best practical option to keep noise to a reasonable level. That includes limiting the volume of any amplified or musical activities to ensure the peace, comfort and convenience of neighbouring businesses or residents are not unduly disturbed.
Noise assessments could be carried out during the protest and any measurements would need to be made over a representative period. Any action to reduce the level of noise would involve the assistance of the Police.