Students, grandparents, doctors, farmers — protesters from all walks of life took to central Dunedin on Saturday. Otago Daily Times reporter Tim Scott and photographers Stephen Jaquiery and Peter McIntosh were in the throng.
White heads of hair nearly outnumber the white shirts for a start.
Of the thousands who have marched from the dental school, about a third raise their hands when asked if this is their first protest.
They are carrying banners, placards and newsprint duct-taped on to plywood boards.
‘‘My dog isn’t the only thing to s... on Dunedin,’’ one sign says.
‘‘Even southern men get sick (sometimes),’’ says another.
One sign depicts Nicola Willis swinging Miley Cyrus-style from a wrecking ball in the shape of Christopher Luxon’s head.
Parents and children sit cross-legged together on the grass, others lay out jackets to sit upon.
Further back, older faces listen from wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
Canes and crutches clack on the concrete tiles.
A few cough and sneeze, and some are wearing masks.
Others are wearing their hospital scrubs.
Younger faces mingle with the old, many of them grinning, and a boy in a wheelchair has the biggest smile of all.
Many comment on the turnout and pause to greet those they recognise.
Jeers and boos erupt from the crowd at the mention of ‘‘Reti’’ and ‘‘Luxon’’.
‘‘Shane, Chris. Keep your promise,’’ a placard says.
A rescue helicopter flying overhead draws applause from the crowd.
‘‘You hope you never need them, but it’s nice to know they’re there,’’ the loudspeaker blares.
A man beats a drum hanging from his neck.
The signs sway as southern singing voices begin to soar.
‘‘Build our hospital.’’
Robbie Burns watches on, holding back a smile.
