International Socialists

Auckland: Extraordinary growth
The anti-war movement in Auckland has grown vastly in only a few months. The demonstration here on February 15 was far larger than any previously held. My own estimate would be about 8000+, compared to earlier demonstrations of only 2000 or so.

So many people showed up that the march's intended finishing point, Aotea Square, was passed by, in favour of Myers Park, when organisers realised the Square would be too small to fit all the marchers. There were a huge variety of people present – political groups, activists, socialists, religious groups and others and, more importantly, most marchers looked as if they were coming along to their first demonstration. It was very heartening to see so many new people getting drawn into the movement.

Another positive development was the union contingents – especially the very visible National Distribution Union.

Comrades sold several bundles of our anti-war readings as well as Socialist Review.
Nick Bond

Wellington: Marching on Parliament
Wellington came together in a big way on the February 15 – the international day of action against the war on Iraq. Estimates of up to 5000 people were present for this march that went through the central business district of Wellington ending in a rally by the doors of Parliament.

It was a great day – sunny, loud, and colourful. There were placards and banners everywhere, with placards very visible. Some chants were absurd, such as "Make Tea, Not War," while others were loud and angry like "End the Sanctions, Stop the War!"

All in all, a unanimous feeling of "Hands off Iraq!" We've jumped from a march of 600 in December to 5000 in February, and the movement looks set to grow further. Our comrades spread the anti-imperialist message on the march, selling 40 anti-war readings and selling out of Socialist Review.
Shomi Yoon

Christchurch: A mixed bag
The anti-war march in January was a huge success with over 1000 people taking part – double what organisers had expected – during a blisteringly hot Canterbury day. There was a wide range of people along from parents with children in push-chairs, older people and lots of new faces.

Unfortunately, Christchurch's anti-war action on February 15 did not match up to the other centres. Thinking people were "sick of endless marches" the organisers opted for a picnic in Victoria Park that attracted at most 500-600 people. The atmosphere was so unpolitical at times it was hard to tell what the event was for! Many people were unhappy with the idea of a picnic and asked, "What is there to celebrate?"

Some groups – such as the Greens, the Alliance and the Anti-Capitalist Alliance – did have stalls to try and politicise the event but it is hard to avoid the conclusion that Christchurch's event was an opportunity wasted.
Gerry Cotterell

Dunedin: Saying NO to WAR!
Dunedin isn't known for the size of its demonstrations, but this summer it outdid itself – not just once, but twice.

In January, there was a very successful march and rally that attracted well over 1000 people, ten times the number expected by most in a city that traditionally goes quiet over the summer when students are out of town. It was a day full of fun, of fiery speeches on the open mike plus entertainment and food to boot. In many respects it turned out to be a family day, but still maintained its focus. We left feeling pretty elated, and geared up for making the next one even better.

February 15 was timed of course with the international day of action. In Dunedin, it almost exploded. Over 3000 people turned up (and most of the students still weren't back in town). We marched sternly and loudly from the Museum Reserve to the Octagon, yelling:

1 2 3 4, We don't want Bush's war!
5 6 7 8 Stop the sanctions, stop the hate!

and other inspiring stuff, joining more people at the Octagon for a rally. The most encouraging aspect of the whole thing was not just a chance to tell Bush what we really thought of his bloody war, but also working with a wide range of other groups to a shared goal – with CORSO, the Greens, the Alliance, the Quakers, Freedom Roadworks, unions and church groups and numerous other individuals.
Penny Hayes