Police have made 60 arrests this morning as part of the pre-planned operation to remove protesters from Parliament.

Police have been descending on Parliament from early this morning, on day 23 of the occupation, and have begun towing larger vehicles, including campervans and trucks.

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Police Commissioner Andrew Coster is now speaking on the police actions today at the Parliament protest.

He says the operation is the result of significant planning and the commitment of several hundred staff from around the country.

"Our message to those who do not wish to be caught up in our operation is, please go home."

We were clear from the start that de-escalation was the preferred option, he says.

"We have reached the stage where protest leaders were either unable or unwilling to effect substantial change,” says Coster.

In the last week, we've seen a changing mix in the make-up of the crowd, he says.

"We have been concerned that those with good intentions have been outnumbered by those willing to use violence.

"The harm being done far outweighs any legitimate protest."

Coster says 36 arrests are confirmed, and 15 vehicles have been towed. They have been seized and will not be returned for now.

Three police officers are injured; two with abrasions and one with paint thrown in the face. They have been treated at the scene and are back in action, says Coster.

"Public safety is our priority," says Coster, adding that police will assist people wanting to leave peacefully.

Asked why it's taken so long for this action, Coster says they have been trying de-escalation. "Now, the balance has tipped."

There is no interest in anyone here in turning this into a fight, he says.

"We will continue this operation until this is completed."

Coster won't give a timeline, saying it will be when the job is done.

- RNZ