The motel owner said he had made his decision after contacting police to clarify the situation. However, a police media spokesman said police had not provided any advice to the motel owner, and it was up to individual businesses to "decide who their customers [were]". Contacted by the ODT about the planned meetings yesterday afternoon, Balclutha Pipe Band president Grant Marshall expressed surprise and dismay. Senior Sergeant Chris Wakelin, of Balclutha police, said there was nothing illegal about the meetings planned in the town for tonight and tomorrow. "We will support all members of the public being safe for any public meeting."

Source: New Zealand Herald June 20, 2023 04:31 UTC