Chris Hipkins was asked what his message was to protesters lingering in Dunedin, given most protesters in Christchurch had packed their tents.
"It’s time to go home," he said.
The Government would keep Covid-19-related restrictions in place only for as long as they were absolutely justified, but as it was dealing with a wave of Omicron now was "not the best time", he said.
Dunedin Mayor Aaron Hawkins said he "strongly" disagreed with the protest’s message, which he believed was dangerous.
"I would prefer it if they packed up and went home," Mr Hawkins said.
"Having said that, we don’t get to pick and choose who can protest in the town square."
He said the protest in the Octagon had been mostly peaceful.
Where issues had been raised, the relevant authorities had dealt with them.
Staff continued to monitor the situation
Octagon protest organiser Nora Bishop refused to comment on Mr Hipkins’ comment.
