Wellington Palestine Group protest against Gaza bombings

In response to the actions of the Israeli Defense Forces in bombarding the Gaza strip, there was a protest this afternoon which gathered outside MFAT in Lambton Quay at midday.
A letter was presented to a representative of the Ministry, to be given to Minister of Foreign Affairs Murray McCully, demanding that NZ expressed a position on the actions of the Israeli Government.

Presenting WPG's letter to MFAT officials.

[full text of the letter can be read here WPG’s blog ]

After presenting the letter, the assembled protesters marched along Lambton Quay, Willis Street and Mercer St to Civic Square, converging on the plaque in Harris St adjacent to the Public Library commemorating Yitzhak Rabin, former Prime Minister of Israel.

Lead banner of protest

There Don Carson spoke about the effects of separatist policy on the Palestinian peoples in Israel, and red paint was symbolically sprinkled on the memorial in lieu of blood.

Rabin memorial being daubed with red paint.

Approximately 500 people attended this march.
Speakers included members of the Wellington Palestine Group, Green MP Keith Locke, and entertainer Te Kupu, aka Dean Hapeta, one half of the Upper Hutt Posse.

Update
The Herald notes that Hon Mr McCully has developed a position here.
And here’s Guy Body’s contribution to the discussion.