“The Peace Movement is preparing to converge on Palmerston North from around the country to take action against the annual Weapons Expo being held at the Central Energy Trust Arena on October 31 and November 1. This is an armaments manufacturers and dealers’ sponsored meeting to showcase their latest equipment and technology,” said Te Ao Pritchard from Peace Action Manawatū.

We stand united to oppose the war profiteers coming to Palmerston North. “Peace Action Manawatū, Peace Action Wellington and Auckland Peace Action have been working together to shut down this event using a diversity of tactics and approaches. Our three groups are planning a range of activities over the days of the Weapons Expo including educational films and speaking events, creative displays, a family-friendly Peace march, a Multi-faith gathering and church service in addition to non-violent direct actions.”

“We are really overwhelmed by the amazing work of the people of Palmerston North in organising the community response with strong representation by church, faith and refugee groups. We are happy to be coming to the Peace City to be a part of the actions,” said Valerie Morse from Auckland Peace Action

“We’re excited to be joined on the day by many other groups and individuals to stand together against the war-profiteers,” said Alex Davis from Peace Action Wellington.

“There is tremendous and growing opposition to this weapons expo across the local community and across the country. Other groups supporting the week of peace activities include: World Beyond War, Pacific Panthers, Political Organisation Aotearoa, People Against Prisons Aotearoa, Metropolitan Church in Progress, Students from St John's Theological College, Quakers, Tāmaki Makarau Anarchists and West Papua Auckland Action.”

Together we are united in actively standing for peace and challenging those who seek to profit from war.

Peace Activities this week

Wednesday, 31 October: Peace March against the Weapons Expo @ The Square, gathering at 11.30am.

Thursday, 1 November: Non-violent community-led direct actions against the Weapons Expo from 7am, location tba

Thursday, 1 November: After school book reading: ‘Remember the Brave’ by Forrest Chambers and Lena Chambers Story of conscientious objection in WWI. Activities/white poppy making & refreshments @ Palmerston North City Library Mezzanine 3.30 - 5.00pm

Ongoing to 10 November: Disrupting the Narrative: a exhibition challenging ideas about New Zealand in WW1 @ the Globe Theatre

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