A Dunedin police field training team was called to an incident outside ANZ bank, in George St, yesterday morning.
Seven protesters from Extinction Rebellion had gathered outside to protest the bank’s ties to fossil fuel industries.
Senior Sergeant Anthony Bond, of Dunedin, said police were called after reports of the group trespassing and refusing to leave.
Police spoke to them and they left. No arrests were made.
The team of new police recruits attended to get exposure "to a variety of events that police officers attend", Snr Sgt Bond said.
Accompanying the protesters was their mascot, a giant walking and talking lump of coal.
The lump of coal, who also went by the name of Bruce Mahalski, said he went to the bank to close his account.
The group called on ANZ to "put their money where their mouth is" and cease all dealings with the fossil fuel industry.
An ANZ spokesman said some protesters were asked to leave and police were called to assist.
"Our priority is always the safety and privacy of our staff and customers, and we’re pleased this matter was resolved promptly."
