The University of Canterbury has confirmed that police were called to campus after a pro-Palestine protest escalated, with a small group of demonstrators reportedly forcing their way into a secured staff area.
A University spokesperson said around 40 students and members of the wider community began what was initially a peaceful protest inside a shared meeting and study space on Thursday.
“Later, a small sub-group forcibly entered a secured staff work area, disregarding reasonable security measures put in place to protect staff safety,” the spokesperson said. “Police support was then requested to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all involved, including staff in their work environment.”
The University said it supports the right of students and staff to engage in lawful and peaceful protest, but that such rights come with responsibilities.
“This right exists alongside our shared responsibility to maintain a safe and respectful environment for everyone on campus, including students, staff, and visitors.”
In response to concerns raised by the protest group regarding university investments, the University stated, “Student fees are not used for investing in funds.”
The University of Canterbury Students’ Association (UCSA) also issued a statement, reiterating its support for respectful dialogue and lawful protest.
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“We call on all groups engaging in activism to do so responsibly and without endangering themselves, others, or the community around them,” the UCSA said.
It also addressed claims about the university’s financial practices: “In terms of the allegations of UC’s investments: we have not been provided with any verified evidence supporting these claims. The President has made direct attempts to see this evidence to present this to the UCSA Executive, but we have yet to receive this.”
A second statement from the UCSA confirmed the protest was organised by Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP). The association said it had supported the protest when it began in the Undercroft, describing it as “conducted respectfully and in line with prior agreements with UC.”
However, the UCSA said it became concerned later in the day when the protest shifted to the Matariki building.
“At this point, the protest no longer adhered to the agreed protocols and imposed significant health and safety risks.”
“We are actively seeking further clarity from everyone involved, including SJP and UC, and are committed to reviewing any information as it becomes available,” the UCSA said.
The association also encouraged students affected by the protest to seek support: “We encourage any student who was harmed or affected by these events to reach out to UC Student Care or visit the UC Health Centre. The safety and wellbeing of students is our top priority.”
Free 24/7 mental health support is also available by calling or texting 1737 to speak with a trained counsellor or peer support worker.
In a statement, police said they were called to the university around 1pm.
“We are aware that there was a melee involving protesters and security, but have not received any complaints of assault,” said Senior Sergeant Roy Appley.
“We would encourage anyone who wishes to make a complaint to contact Police through 105.
“Thankfully, there were only minor injuries reported among protesters and security personnel, and no arrests were made.
“Even relatively minor confrontations can easily escalate, so we urge anyone in these situations to keep their cool and be mindful of their actions.”
