Scenes from a demonstration in support of transgender rights in central Christchurch. Photo: Belinda McCammon
Hundreds of people have been demonstrating, chanting and dancing in Christchurch and Wellington today in support of transgender rights.
Today's demonstrations come a day after controversial anti-trans campaigner Posie Parker had to be escorted away before she could speak at her Auckland event, as more than 2000 protesters outnumbered her supporters.
Several hundred demonstrators in Christchurch - many holding placards and rainbow flags - gathered near the Bridge of Remembrance late this morning.
A group of counter protestors from the Destiny Church group 'Man Up' were at the scene, with police and rally organisers keeping both groups separated. A speaker from Man Up was shouted down when he attempted to speak.
Meanwhile, more than 1000 people have turned out to Civic Square in Wellington this afternoon show their support for the transgender community.
One speaker at today's gathering in the capital has said it was going to be a rally, but has turned into a party.
Supporters of the transgender community gather in Civic Square in Wellington. Photo: Kate Green
Supporters of the transgender community gather in Civic Square in Wellington. Photo: Kate Green
Supporters of the transgender community gather in Wellington. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
Supporters of the transgender community gather in Wellington. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
Supporters of the transgender community gather in Wellington. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
Supporters of the transgender community gather in Wellington. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
Scenes from a demonstration in support of transgender rights in central Christchurch. Photo: Belinda McCammon
Scenes from a demonstration in support of transgender rights in central Christchurch. Photo: Belinda McCammon
Scenes from a demonstration in support of transgender rights in central Christchurch. Photo: Belinda McCammon
Scenes from a demonstration in support of transgender rights in central Christchurch. Photo: Belinda McCammon
Scenes from a demonstration in support of transgender rights in central Christchurch. Photo: Belinda McCammon