All road cordons and closures have now been lifted after protesters led by Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki were blocked from entering the motorway for their anti-immigration rally in Auckland's Victoria Park.
Waitematā District Commander Superintendent Naila Hassan said the Destiny Church-affiliated Freedom and Rights Coalition protesters moved from the central city park to the cordon where they met a visible police presence at the Fanshawe St on- and off-ramps.
At its peak, Hassan estimated 1200 people to have gathered in Victoria Park and marched to the Fanshawe Street cordon, before dispersing.
A temporary stoppage of all southbound traffic on State Highway 1 was in place from the Onewa Rd off-ramp to allow additional police resources to move into the Auckland CBD, she said, adding the road closures and police cordon were a "precautionary measure".
"No arrests have been made today," she confirmed.
"I’m immensely proud of all the police staff deployed on today’s operation for their professionalism in response to this event."
Hassan said most Aucklanders were "able to largely go about their weekend without incident".
Police said it would continue to monitor for any issues that might arise.
The protest had originally intended to cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge, but NZTA denied a permit in December as the traffic management plan did not meet "strict criteria".
Police previously warned they would run a large-scale operation to prevent the protest from crossing the Harbour Bridge.
The group had been "clearly advised" that access would not be allowed, Hassan said, and officers would be "well placed" to respond to any attempts.
"Anyone attempting this will be subject to enforcement action, and we strongly urge anyone considering taking part to think about their actions."
Police reiterated that people have the right to protest, provided it is peaceful and lawful.
Toitu te Aroha
A separate anti-discrimination rally was held at Te Komititanga from around midday, followed by a hīkoi up Queen St to Myers Park.
Police monitored the hīkoi as it progressed up Queen St and was completed safely.
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