Crowds have braved wet weather in Christchurch to protest the Government’s vaccination mandates, blocking off central city streets.

The Freedoms & Rights Coalition protest group had proposed a “Great Gridlock” of slow moving vehicles to block traffic across New Zealand cities today.

The protestors have walked from Cranmer Square to Cathedral Square.

A police spokeswoman said police estimated the crowd to be around 1500-2000.

“Police are aware of planned protest activity across the country on Saturday, and will continue to monitor activity.”

“Police officers will maintain a presence and will respond to events as appropriate at the time.”

“As with previous large gatherings, Police may follow up on any identified offences or breaches at a later time.”

Protestors have been holding up signs saying “we support freedom of choice” and “free choices not dishonest politicians.

A protestor said “ it’s never been about safety, but control.”

Another protestor held up a sign saying “ dividing New Zealand is not the way. ” Another sign said “no jab, no job is not freedom of choice.”