After a two-month occupation of Dunedin's Octagon, anti-mandate protesters have left following threats of trespass notices if they didn't pack up by midday today.
As the clock struck 12 and the town's clock tower chimed, the group left it until the very last minute before packing up, otherwise police action would have been needed.
"They were prepared to be able to enforce the trespass notices had the camp not been disestablished by midday as was the deadline," said Dunedin Mayor Aaron Hawkins.
The deadline came and the protesters were gone, leaving behind patches of dead grass and dirt with no tents in sight.
"It was something that I feel had run its course and that certainly was the view of the public, and I appreciate that the community has found this frustrating."
Frustrations boiled over last week with verbal abuse hurled at Mayor Hawkins, but despite the unfriendly welcome protesters are allowed back at the Octagon only if it's lawful.
"The issue is with the erection of structures and the ongoing occupation."
Dunedinites were quick to reclaim their place in their city as a lunch spot, but the occupation might still leave a bad taste with ratepayers set to pick up the bill.
