New Zealand authorities shut down 'Occupy' camps

Associated Press – Jan. 22, 2012

AUCKLAND, New Zealand (AP) — Authorities have effectively shut down the
Occupy movement in New Zealand's largest city after more than 100 days of
protest.

Auckland Council officers and police Monday confiscated cars, tents and
camping gear from more than 50 protesters at four sites in Auckland. The
raid came after a local court ruled authorities could remove property from
people who were illegally camping.

Police arrested three people in Aotea Square during the raids.

Occupy encampments remain in other New Zealand cities. Protesters in this
country joined the movement that began last September in New York as a
protest against social and financial inequality.

Auckland Council spokesman Glyn Walters said protesters can return to the
sites but are no longer allowed to camp there.