Life Sciences Say Police Estimates Much Lower
Official Police estimates of the numbers of anti-GM protestors are much lower than the numbers being claimed by activist
organisations.
Police estimated the crowd in Auckland peaked at 5000 - about half the crowd which organisers claimed turned out for a
similar rally in 2002.
Earlier today organisers Greenpeace predicted the Auckland rally would attract 20,000 participants.
In Wellington Police estimated 1500 marched from Civic Square to Parliament.
In Timaru the crowd numbered just over 100 while Dunedin Police estimated a crowd of 200 turned out to protest against
GM.
"The numbers the anti-GE movement has been able to turn out to protest have steadily declined," said Life Sciences
Network Chairmn, Dr William Rolleston.
"It's very significant that the Auckland numbers are down to half the number who turned out last year. It's clear the
actions of a small but vocal minority have distanced their cause from middle New Zealand."