A 74-year-old anti-royalist protester was arrested moments before Prince Charles and Camilla arrived to greet thousands of people gathered in central Auckland today.
ONE News understands Sam Bracanov was arrested after he was allegedly captured on CCTV in downtown Auckland preparing to commit an assault. Police said he had an item with him, which they would not name.
He is due to appear in court tomorrow.
A family member told ONE News police had tried to contact Bracanov this morning but he had already left.
Other protestors were among the well-wishers braving the rain in downtown Auckland.
"We don't tolerate royalist fools poncing around," said one.
Anti-Royalist Kerry Bevin yelled "go home and don't come back" as Charles passed through the crowds, while others carried protest signs. One sign read "Get a job Royal Bludgers".
While Prince Charles and Camilla's visit is causing some to question whether it is time for New Zealand to become a republic, a ONE News/Colmar Brunton published just before the visit showed no sign of wavering in New Zealand's loyalty to the monarchy.
The poll indicates that 70% of New Zealanders want to keep the Queen as head of state.
Only 19% of the 1000 polled supported New Zealand becoming a republic, while 7% were unsure.
The poll shows New Zealanders are less enthused with becoming a republic than they were in 2008 when 25% voted in favour of becoming a republic.