by Mike Bain – The Daily Examiner.
The ongoing investigation into a Destiny Church-linked protest has led to the arrest of four individuals, with assault-related charges, including indecent assault, filed against them. The protest occurred on February 15 at the Te Atatū Community Centre, where members of the Man Up and Legacy programmes stormed a children’s science show hosted by a drag artist.
Eight victims filed complaints, and six witnesses provided statements to the police.
Waitematā District Commander Superintendent Naila Hassan confirmed that police conducted operations in South and West Auckland, resulting in the arrests. The individuals, who face charges ranging from indecent assault to multiple counts of assault under the Crimes and Summary Offences Acts, have been bailed to appear in the Waitākere District Court on March 18.
Hassan emphasized that the group’s actions caused significant distress to Rainbow communities and crossed the line of lawful protest.
The incident has reignited debates surrounding Destiny Church and its affiliated programmes. Labour MP Phil Twyford has called for Destiny Church to lose its charity status, citing serious wrongdoing under the Charities Act.
Twyford criticized the church for targeting the Te Atatū event, accusing its leader, Brian Tamaki, of discriminatory and oppressive actions. He argued that the church’s tax-deductible status should be revoked, as its actions undermine the principles of inclusivity and equality.
In a related development, the police have ceased referring individuals to Destiny Church’s Man Up and Legacy programmes. These programmes, previously part of the AWHI system—a voluntary referral initiative aimed at preventing crime and reoffending—were removed following the protest. Police stated their commitment to serving diverse communities and are seeking alternative service providers. Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki defended the programmes, claiming they restore families and break cycles of crime and addiction, and accused the police of yielding to political pressure.
The situation has sparked broader discussions about the role of charitable organizations and the balance between freedom of expression and community safety. Labour MPs and advocacy groups continue to push for stricter measures against organizations that engage in discriminatory or violent actions.
