Police are out in force on Wellington streets again this morning. It follows dramatic scenes yesterday of battles between a large number of police and a hard core of angry protesters.
There were chaotic scenes as protestors scrambled to save what gear they could and some were pepper sprayed. People set fire to trees and tents and loud bangs could be heard - possibly gas cannisters exploding - as the flames spread - damaging the children's playground and surrounding trees.
The fires were put out, allowing police to push protesters onto the streets but tensions simmered for hours.
Dozens of protestors hurled chairs, metal poles, a length of four by two - anything they could find at the line of officers. When they ran out of things to throw, they started digging up bricks from the footpath on Lambton Quay.
A high powered water hose was also used by protestors showering police with paint petrol and water. As of late last night 87 people had been arrested for offences including trespass, wilful damage and possession of restricted weapons.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says the violence was deeply saddening. Hundreds of police were involved in Wednesday's operation, seven required hospital treatment.
Corin Dann spoke to Police Commissioner Andrew Coster.
