16 Sep 2023

Posie Parker cancels trip to New Zealand over safety concerns

1:15 pm on 16 September 2023
British anti-transgender activist Posie Parker, also known as Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull, at a rally in Albert Park in central Auckland on 25 March 2023.

Posie Parker at a rally in Albert Park in central Auckland on 25 March 2023. Photo: RNZ / Rayssa Almeida

British anti-transgender activist Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull - also known as Posie Parker - says she is abandoning a scheduled trip to New Zealand out of fear she and her supporters would not be protected.

She had been scheduled to visit the country next week.

Earlier this year, Posie Parker's Let Women Speak tour came to an abrupt end after thousands of trans-solidarity protesters showed up.

In a video on social media, Keen-Minshull said even if officials allowed her into New Zealand, she felt police would not protect her or her supporters.

"I don't trust that the police are going to come and look after me, or any women attending."

She then went on to accuse the country's police, border forces and politicians of corruption.

Inspector Richard Sami said police were aware of the potential for significant protest activity in central Auckland surrounding a planned hearing in the Auckland District Court next week.

"Our staff have been speaking with representatives of Ms Keen-Minshull to understand their plans and convey advice regarding personal safety.

"Planning is well advanced and we are well connected with other agencies in regards to this matter, including the Ministry of Justice."

He said police would be present to monitor and minimise disruption to the wider public.

"Police recognise the lawful right to protest, and our role in these situations is to uphold the law and ensure the safety of all," Sami said.

Customs have been approached for comment.

Get the RNZ app

for ad-free news and current affairs