In photos: Early morning clash between police and protesters in Wellington

In the early hours of the morning, police launched an operation at Parliament and the surrounding areas "to restore order and access to the area". Before the sun rose, police could be seen getting in formation, holding shields.

Some protesters had spent the night preparing for action, with cars and campervans moved to block streets. A trampoline was moved into an intersection and struts were used to further block access.

As a loud speaker blared instructions for protesters to leave or be arrested, officers searched tents and checked no-one was in them before ripping them down.

As daylight set in, a clash between protesters and police followed.

Milk was used by protesters to cool the impacts of pepper spray.

Police said protesters were seen carrying things to use as weapons like pitchforks, fire extinguishers and paint-filled projectiles. Others were seen carrying wooden shields towards police lines. At least three police officers were injured, they said.

Mist from fire extinguishers filled the air as tensions rose.

Police said they had gained significant ground, removing a number of vehicles and structures belonging to the protesters.

Leading up to midday, police in riot gear could be seen in among the operation, 60 people had been arrested and the day was far from over.

To protesters who didn't want to get caught up in the operation, Police Commissioner Andrew Coster advised: "Please go home."