Thousands are expected to converge in Auckland central today to participate in a march opposing the signing of the TPPA set to take place at Skycity.
12 representatives from the countries involved in the trade agreement will gather in Auckland at the signing hosted by the New Zealand government.
According to protest organisers, It’s Our Future, the march will assemble at midday on Queen Street and will begin with a pōhiri and karakia.
A number of iwi representatives and members of the hikoi to Waitangi are also expected to participate.
Organisers say, “People are coming from a wide range of organisations representing a range of groups across society including iwi; doctors, nurses and health workers; trade unions; small businesses; actors and musicians; lawyers and academics; and a wide range of NGOs and community based organisations.”
Prime Minister John Key confirmed there will be tight security around TPP officials for the signing. All eyes will be on New Zealand with over 100 media outlets covering the signing.
Extra security measures have been put in place and roads in the city are expected to be closed off or heavily congested for a period when the march begins.