Five people have been arrested with paint cans after a rainbow crossing in Gisborne was restored following its defacement by protesters on Monday evening.
Earlier, Destiny Church protestors had filmed themselves covering the pride-themed crossing with white paint, in protest at a Rainbow Storytime event being held at the city’s library.
In a statement this evening, a police spokesperson told 1News five people had been arrested following a protest on Gladstone Rd.
“At around 4pm a group of protesters returned to the previously damaged and newly repainted rainbow crossing with paint cans, and blocked the road.”
The group were arrested for “preparing to commit a crime”.
“Police are continuing to investigate yesterday and today’s events and are considering any next steps.”
The council this afternoon released images of the crossing fixed after it was defaced on Monday, with Mayor Rehette Stoltz saying she was “thrilled” it had been repainted so quickly.
“This shows inclusivity and how dedicated we are to our whole community.”
Stolz said the council was working with police to “make those involved accountable” and is also seeking reparations for the cost of the work.
In a statement yesterday, Stolz said, “We accept that people hold different views [but] there is no place for hate or bigotry in Tairāwhiti”.
“Gisborne District Council strongly condemns the vandalism done last night.”
“We absolutely object to individuals interfering with our road markings and the safety of people on our roads.
“We stand in solidarity with the rainbow community and strongly support the message of the rainbow crossing as well as the Kaupapa of the library event.
“This kind of visibility of acceptance saves lives. We are very mindful of the struggle some of our young people face when there is no recognition for them as they explore their identities.
“Rainbows are representative of joy for everyone.”
On Breakfast this morning, Rainbow Storytime organiser Daniel Lockett, also known as Erika Flash, called the destruction of the crossing “the worst thing that we’ve ever had happen to us”.
He said the act was “more than just a paint job”.
“It’s telling us that we are going to be silenced, and they’re going to do anything they can, whether it’s legal or not, to shut us up.”
On X, Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki said the protestors wanted to protect “the innocence of our kids”, claiming drag queens were “adult entertainment” and the events spread “gender ideology”.
He also praised the vandals calling them “the bravest people I know”.