Editing Brian Tamaki (section)

==Views and controversies==

===Cult allegations===
In a ''[[Close Up (TV programme)|Close Up]]'' televised interview<ref name="CloseUp Interview TVNZ">[https://web.archive.org/web/20110808233259/http://tvnz.co.nz/close-up/cult-church-speak-brian-tamaki-3101061/video], Close-Up Interview TVNZ, Video.</ref> on the subject Tamaki denied that his church is a [[cult]], stating that "if we are a cult then the Catholics, the Presbyterians, the Methodists, the Baptists, and the Pentecostals are all cults as well.  Because we believe – we have the same actual orthodox tenets of belief."

===Views on sexuality and marriage===
[[Radio Pacific]] host [[John Banks (New Zealand politician)|John Banks]] aired an interview with Tamaki that attacked a New Zealand AIDS Foundation's ''[[takatāpui]]'' ([[Māori language|Māori]] for LGBT-person) HIV-prevention project, in which Tamaki referred to traditional Māori pre-colonial intolerance for male homosexuality, painting a picture of a society which, he states, exterminated gay and lesbian people. However, many Māori academic authorities question the basis for this statement.<ref>{{cite news  | last =Anon  | title =Destiny's hidden gay warriors  | publisher =GayNZ.com  | date =8 March 2006  | url =http://www.gaynz.com/articles/publish/2/article_3366.php  | access-date =19 July 2008  | archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20090620004502/http://www.gaynz.com/articles/publish/2/article_3366.php  | archive-date =20 June 2009 | url-status =dead  }}</ref>

The broadcasting of Tamaki's preaching against homosexuality on [[Television New Zealand]] has led to numerous complaints to the Broadcasting Standards Authority.<ref>{{cite web| title =Decision No: 2003-141-158| publisher =Broadcasting Standards Authority| date =15 September 2003| url =http://www.bsa.govt.nz/decisions/2003/2003-141__158.htm| access-date =11 May 2007| url-status =dead| archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20070928110900/http://www.bsa.govt.nz/decisions/2003/2003-141__158.htm| archive-date =28 September 2007| df =dmy-all}}
</ref> Television New Zealand pulled the original opening episode of his series ''Higher Ground'', because it "had language and phrases that did not meet industry standards of accuracy, fairness and balance".<ref name = "herald">
{{cite news  | last =Gamble  | first =Warren| title =Breach of standards stifled minister's opening sermon  | newspaper = [[New Zealand Herald]] |date=7 March 2000 }}
</ref>

Tamaki does not recognise the [[sex reassignment surgery|sex-reassignment surgery]] of the [[Transsexualism|transgender]] former MP [[Georgina Beyer]]: Tamaki referred to Beyer in his autobiography as a male.<ref name="autobio"/>

On 16 November 2016, Brian Tamaki drew controversy when he made statements during a sermon that the [[2010 Canterbury earthquake|2010]] and [[2011 Christchurch earthquake]]s were divine retribution for sinful behaviour including murder and homosexuality. These statements preceded the [[2016 Kaikōura earthquake]] by a few hours.<ref>{{cite news|title=Watch: Brian Tamaki tells followers, 'the weight of human sin' caused the Christchurch earthquake, hours before Kaikoura|url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/watch-brian-tamaki-tells-followers-weight-human-sin-caused-christchurch-earthquake-hours-before-kaikoura-disaster?auto=5212114211001|access-date=17 November 2016|publisher=[[1News]]|date=16 November 2016|archive-date=17 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161117211208/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/watch-brian-tamaki-tells-followers-weight-human-sin-caused-christchurch-earthquake-hours-before-kaikoura-disaster?auto=5212114211001|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Strongman|first1=Susan|title=Bishop Brian Tamaki blames gays, murderers and sinners for earthquakes|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11749215|access-date=17 November 2016|newspaper=[[New Zealand Herald]]|date=17 November 2016}}</ref> Tamaki's comments were condemned by leading New Zealand public figures including the Mayor of Christchurch [[Bob Parker (mayor)|Bob Parker]], Prime Minister [[John Key]], and the [[Anglican Church in Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia|Anglican]] bishop of Dunedin, [[Kelvin Wright]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Sir Bob Parker demands 'off beam' Brian Tamaki apologise to Christchurch, Kaikoura for blaming quake on sins|url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/sir-bob-parker-demands-off-beam-brian-tamaki-apologise-christchurch-kaikoura-blaming-quake-sins|access-date=17 November 2016|publisher=1 News|date=16 November 2016|archive-date=17 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161117144906/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/sir-bob-parker-demands-off-beam-brian-tamaki-apologise-christchurch-kaikoura-blaming-quake-sins|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Strongman|first1=Susan|title=Shock over Destiny leader Brian Tamaki's homophobic remarks|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11749423|access-date=17 November 2016|newspaper=[[New Zealand Herald]]|date=17 November 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=McNeilly|first1=Hamish|title=Bishop of Dunedin on Brian Tamaki: 'He's telling porkies'|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/86576726/bishop-of-dunedin-on-brian-tamaki-hes-telling-porkies|access-date=17 November 2016|work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=17 November 2016}}</ref> One Auckland-based critic Aaron Smithson also organised a [[Change.org]] petition calling on Prime Minister Key to revoke Destiny Church's tax-free status.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Akoorie|first1=Natalie|title=Petition to stop Destiny Church having tax-free status gaining support|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11749796|access-date=17 November 2016|newspaper=[[New Zealand Herald]] |date=17 November 2016}}</ref> On 17 November, Tamaki responded by accusing the media of [[media bias|bias]] and sensationalising his statements.<ref>{{cite news|title=Not just gays to blame for quake, says Brian Tamaki, but all 'extra-sexual behaviour'|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11750012|access-date=17 November 2016|newspaper=[[New Zealand Herald]]|date=17 November 2016}}</ref>

On 19 April 2018, Tamaki tweeted his support for Australian rugby union player [[Israel Folau]]'s comments condemning homosexuality.<ref>{{cite news|title=Focus: 'Cry baby gays' – Brian Tamaki tweets his support for Folau|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/national-video/news/video.cfm?c_id=1503075&gal_cid=1503075&gallery_id=191798|access-date=23 April 2018|newspaper=[[New Zealand Herald]]|date=19 April 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Destiny Church Brian Tamaki says 'cry baby gays' will go to hell|url=http://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2018/04/destiny-church-brian-tamaki-says-cry-baby-gays-will-go-to-hell.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180419074428/http://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2018/04/destiny-church-brian-tamaki-says-cry-baby-gays-will-go-to-hell.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=19 April 2018|access-date=23 April 2018|publisher=[[Newshub]]|date=19 April 2018}}</ref>

In June 2019, he made an 'apology' in front of representatives from the LGBT community who were invited on to stage to share their stories and ask for a bridging of the divide between the LGBT community and the church. He told his South Auckland congregation that he is sorry for any past comments that have offended the gay community, saying that some of his past comments were misinterpreted. But he said that he hasn't changed his beliefs, and doesn't agree with homosexual acts.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://gayexpress.co.nz/2019/06/brian-tamaki-to-gay-community-im-sorry/|title=Brian Tamaki to Gay Community: "I'm Sorry"|date=June 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/391053/destiny-church-s-brian-tamaki-says-sorry-to-gay-community-but-still-doesn-t-agree-with-homosexuality|title = Destiny Church's Brian Tamaki says 'sorry' to gay community, but still doesn't agree with homosexuality| website=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date = 2 June 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/113181008/guests-at-destiny-church-conference-signal-new-embrace-of-gay-community|title=Destiny Church's Brian Tamaki apologises to gay community|date=June 2019}}</ref> This apology came only one week after his wife launched a political party [[Vision NZ]] (then called Coalition New Zealand).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/391053/destiny-church-s-brian-tamaki-says-sorry-to-gay-community-but-still-doesn-t-agree-with-homosexuality|title=Destiny Church's Brian Tamaki says 'sorry' to gay community, but still doesn't agree with homosexuality|date=2 June 2019|website=[[RNZ]] |language=en-nz|access-date=23 February 2020}}</ref>

===Views on women in politics===
Tamaki regards the perceived lack of male leadership in New Zealand, including the leadership over one's family, as "the work of the [[Satan|devil]]".<ref name = "herald"/> According to Tamaki, Parliament reflects this alleged lack of male leadership. In his autobiography he defends his attitude towards women by pointing to the role of his wife Pastor Hannah Tamaki in the Destiny Church organisation, and also says "God is very specific about the role and function of men".<ref name="autobio"/> He has also said that he wants to appoint a Minister for Men.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 August 2023 |title=Brian Tamaki launches Freedoms NZ's 'Time to Stop Crime' policy with a firm hand |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/kahu/bishop-brian-tamaki-launches-freedoms-nzs-time-to-stop-crime-policy-with-a-firm-hand/VQJFJXXXQJEYJAARFPNYGBYOPA/ |access-date=2024-03-08 |website=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |language=en-NZ}}</ref>

[[Trans woman]] [[Member of parliament|MP]] [[Georgina Beyer]] confronted Tamaki at the "[[Destiny Church (New Zealand)#Enough is Enough rally|Enough is Enough]]" protest in Wellington in August 2004, charging "Your hatred is totally intolerable". Beyer also compared Tamaki to [[despotism|despot]]s like [[Robert Mugabe]] in a ''[[3 News]]'' interview.<ref name="TV3">{{cite news |date=9 March 2006 |title=Flock to Bishop – Let us pay |publisher=[[3 News|TV3 News]] |url=http://www.tv3.co.nz/News/tabid/67/articleID/4932/Default.aspx |url-status=dead |access-date=11 May 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070712185502/http://www.tv3.co.nz/News/tabid/67/articleID/4932/Default.aspx |archive-date=12 July 2007}}</ref>

===Views on Islam===
Following the [[Christchurch mosque shootings]] in March 2019, Brian Tamaki issued a Tweet protesting at Prime Minister [[Jacinda Ardern]]'s decision to hold an Islamic call to prayer ahead of the two minutes of silence being held for the victims of the Christchurch shootings on 22 March 2019. Tamaki also made remarks attacking Islam as a "false religion".<ref>{{cite news |title='This is not us!': Destiny Church's Brian Tamaki slams Muslim call to prayer |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12215110 |access-date=22 March 2019 |newspaper=[[New Zealand Herald]] |date=22 March 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Destiny's Brian Tamaki 'strongly denounces' use of Islamic Call to Prayer for victims of the Christchurch terror attacks |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/destinys-brian-tamaki-strongly-denounces-use-islamic-call-prayer-victims-christchurch-terror-attacks?variant=tb_v_1 |access-date=22 March 2019 |publisher=[[1News]] |date=22 March 2019}}</ref>

===Responses to the COVID-19 pandemic===
{{Main|COVID-19 anti-lockdown protests in New Zealand|The Freedoms & Rights Coalition}}
During the [[COVID-19 pandemic in New Zealand]], Tamaki courted media attention and controversy in mid-March 2020 when he announced that Destiny Church would not be closing their churches in response to Government directives discouraging gatherings of more than 100 people. Tamaki stated that he was "not about to let a filthy virus scare us out of having church. To equate fear with common sense is nonsense."<ref>{{cite news |last1=Andelane |first1=Lana |title=Coronavirus: Destiny Church 'does not fear' COVID-19, will remain open |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2020/03/coronavirus-destiny-church-does-not-fear-covid-19-will-remain-open.html |access-date=28 March 2020 |work=[[Newshub]] |date=15 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328030817/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2020/03/coronavirus-destiny-church-does-not-fear-covid-19-will-remain-open.html|archive-date=28 March 2020}}</ref> He said that "... very ignorant Kiwis don't even realise their rights have been stolen".<ref>{{Cite news|title=Brian Tamaki says 'very ignorant' Kiwis don't realise their rights have been 'stolen' |date=17 May 2020 |language=en|work=[[Newshub]]|url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2020/05/brian-tamaki-says-very-ignorant-kiwis-don-t-realise-their-rights-have-been-stolen.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200522154434/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2020/05/brian-tamaki-says-very-ignorant-kiwis-don-t-realise-their-rights-have-been-stolen.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=22 May 2020|access-date=7 September 2020}}</ref> Tamaki's remarks were criticised by infectious diseases expert [[Siouxsie Wiles]] for undermining COVID-19 containment efforts."<ref>{{cite news |last1=Harvey |first1=Megan |title=Coronavirus: Experts slams Brian Tamaki's attitude as he vows to keep churches open |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12316991 |access-date=28 March 2020 |work=[[New Zealand Herald]] |date=16 March 2020}}</ref> While Destiny Church held services on 22 March, they subsequently shifted to online services to comply with national lockdown restrictions.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Tokalau |first1=Torika |title=Coronavirus: Destiny Church continues Sunday service with precautionary measures |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/120474471/coronavirus-destiny-church-continues-sunday-service-with-precautionary-measures |access-date=28 March 2020 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=22 March 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Destiny Church Online|url=https://www.destinychurch.org.nz/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328030601/https://www.destinychurch.org.nz/|archive-date=28 March 2020|access-date=28 March 2020|website=Destiny Church Online|publisher=Destiny Church}}</ref>

In mid-2020, Tamaki criticised the Government's [[COVID-19 alert levels in New Zealand#Level 2 – Reduce|alert level two restrictions]] limiting religious services to 10 people. Describing the Government as "controlling parents," Tamaki announced that Destiny Church would be holding services in defiance of lockdown regulations and also called upon other New Zealand churches to join him in opposing these restrictions.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Bhatia |first1=Ripu |title=Coronavirus: Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki says Sunday service will go ahead |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300010278/coronavirus-destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-says-sunday-service-will-go-ahead |access-date=14 May 2020 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=12 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200514025725/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300010278/coronavirus-destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-says-sunday-service-will-go-ahead |archive-date=14 May 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Brian Tamaki to hold church service this weekend despite Level 2 restrictions |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/brian-tamaki-hold-church-service-weekend-despite-level-2-restrictions |access-date=14 May 2020 |work=[[1News]] |date=13 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200514030133/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/brian-tamaki-hold-church-service-weekend-despite-level-2-restrictions |archive-date=14 May 2020}}</ref>

In early March 2021, Tamaki and his wife Hannah attracted media coverage and public criticism after they left Auckland during a Level 3 lockdown and visited [[Rotorua]] in the North Island and [[Te Anau]] in the South Island, which were both under a Level 2 lockdown. The COVID-19 Response Minister [[Chris Hipkins]] described the Tamakis' actions as "completely irresponsible."<ref>{{cite news |last1=Hudson |first1=Daisy |title=Covid 19 coronavirus: Te Anau locals criticise Brian Tamaki's lockdown-defying South Island travels |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-coronavirus-te-anau-locals-criticise-brian-tamakis-lockdown-defying-south-island-travels/6FOEPR46D6XXAH7JAWI4UFKSUE/ |access-date=7 March 2021 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=3 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210303195946/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-coronavirus-te-anau-locals-criticise-brian-tamakis-lockdown-defying-south-island-travels/6FOEPR46D6XXAH7JAWI4UFKSUE/ |archive-date=3 March 2021|url-status=live}}</ref> The Mayor of Invercargill [[Tim Shadbolt]] stated that the Tamakis were not welcome in the South Island city.<ref>{{cite news |title=Mayor Shadbolt says Tamakis not welcome in Invercargill after couple's lockdown flee |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/mayor-shadbolt-says-tamakis-not-welcome-in-invercargill-after-couples-lockdown-flee |access-date=7 March 2021 |work=[[1News]] |date=4 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210304041620/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/mayor-shadbolt-says-tamakis-not-welcome-in-invercargill-after-couples-lockdown-flee |archive-date=4 March 2021|url-status=live}}</ref> That same month, Tamaki had defended Hannah's Facebook post stating that she would not take any COVID-19 vaccine, declaring they were not "anti-vaxxers" or conspiracy theorists.<ref>{{cite news |title=Covid 19 coronavirus: Tamakis say they 'are not anti vaxxers' |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-coronavirus-tamakis-say-they-are-not-anti-vaxxers/72HJVGL7HF7WL6RM6BO2KW6WOI/ |access-date=7 March 2021 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=4 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210304070620/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-coronavirus-tamakis-say-they-are-not-anti-vaxxers/72HJVGL7HF7WL6RM6BO2KW6WOI/ |archive-date=4 March 2021|url-status=live}}</ref>

On [[COVID-19 anti-lockdown protests in New Zealand#2 October|2 October 2021]], Tamaki along with [[The Freedoms & Rights Coalition]] (TFRC) staged [[COVID-19 anti-lockdown protests in New Zealand#2 October|an anti-lockdown protest]] outside the [[Auckland War Memorial Museum]] in the [[Auckland Domain]]. The protests attracted thousands of demonstrators, including gang members on motorbikes,{{clarify|date=October 2021|reason=What gangs? Outlaw motorcycle gangs?}} young children and elderly, many of whom were not following social distancing rules or wearing masks. The protesters were criticised for flouting lockdown restrictions and endangering public health by [[ACT New Zealand|ACT Party]] leader [[David Seymour]], [[Auckland Council]] councillors Jo Bartley and Richard Hills, and [[Jacinda Ardern]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Palmer |first1=Scott |title=New Zealanders react with rage after Brian Tamaki holds anti-lockdown protest |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2021/10/new-zealanders-react-with-rage-after-brian-tamaki-holds-anti-lockdown-protest.html |access-date=2 October 2021 |work=[[Newshub]] |date=2 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211002105231/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2021/10/new-zealanders-react-with-rage-after-brian-tamaki-holds-anti-lockdown-protest.html|archive-date=2 October 2021|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Williams |first1=Caroline |title=Covid-19: Fears of virus spread after Brian Tamaki's anti-lockdown protest in Auckland |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/300421363/covid19-fears-of-virus-spread-after-brian-tamakis-antilockdown-protest-in-auckland |access-date=2 October 2021 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=2 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211002044103/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/300421363/covid19-fears-of-virus-spread-after-brian-tamakis-antilockdown-protest-in-auckland|archive-date=2 October 2021|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Brian Tamaki's anti-lockdown rally draws large Auckland crowd |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/brian-tamakis-anti-lockdown-rally-draws-large-auckland-crowd |access-date=2 October 2021 |date=2 October 2021 |work=[[1News]] |publisher=[[TVNZ]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211002024721/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/brian-tamakis-anti-lockdown-rally-draws-large-auckland-crowd|archive-date=2 October 2021|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Covid-19: Ardern calls anti-lockdown protest a slap in the face |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/126567695/covid19-ardern-calls-antilockdown-protest-a-slap-in-the-face |access-date=3 October 2021 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=3 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211003121243/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/126567695/covid19-ardern-calls-antilockdown-protest-a-slap-in-the-face |archive-date=3 October 2021|url-status=live}}</ref>
 
The New Zealand Police's delay in laying charges against Tamaki drew criticism, with a [[Change.org]] petition calling for his prosecution attracting 65,000 signatures by 4 October.<ref>{{cite news |title=Police consider charges over Brian Tamaki led Auckland anti-lockdown protest |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/police-consider-charges-over-brian-tamaki-led-auckland-anti-lockdown-protest |access-date=5 October 2021 |work=[[1News]] |publisher=[[TVNZ]] |date=4 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211004031828/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/police-consider-charges-over-brian-tamaki-led-auckland-anti-lockdown-protest |archive-date=4 October 2021|url-status=live}}</ref> On 5 October, Tamaki was charged with breaching the [[COVID-19 Public Health Response Act 2020]] and Alert Level 3 restrictions in relation to organising the protest.<ref>{{cite news |title=Covid 19 Delta outbreak: Brian Tamaki charged after anti-lockdown protest at Auckland Domain |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-delta-outbreak-man-63-charged-after-brian-tamaki-led-anti-lockdown-protest-at-auckland-domain/JSF6XAJXJVPNNQVN2LVJ2W5WZU/ |access-date=5 October 2021 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=5 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211005032229/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-delta-outbreak-man-63-charged-after-brian-tamaki-led-anti-lockdown-protest-at-auckland-domain/JSF6XAJXJVPNNQVN2LVJ2W5WZU/|archive-date=5 October 2021|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Brian Tamaki receives court summons for organising Auckland Domain protest |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/brian-tamaki-receives-court-summons-organising-auckland-domain-protest |access-date=5 October 2021 |work=[[1News]] |publisher=[[TVNZ]] |date=5 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211004031828/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/police-consider-charges-over-brian-tamaki-led-auckland-anti-lockdown-protest |archive-date=4 October 2021|url-status=live}}</ref> He appeared in court by video link on 12 October and pleaded not guilty. He was remanded on bail until a further appearance in January 2022. He was also banned from attending protests in breach of anti-COVID restrictions and from using the internet to encourage non-compliance.<ref>{{cite news |title=Covid-19: Destiny Church's Brian Tamaki pleads not guilty to lockdown charges |first=Catrin |last=Owen |date=12 October 2021 |url= https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/300428132/covid19-destiny-churchs-brian-tamaki-pleads-not-guilty-to-lockdown-charges |newspaper=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |access-date=12 October 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Covid 19 Delta outbreak: Brian Tamaki makes first court appearance |date=12 October 2021 |url= https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-delta-outbreak-brian-tamaki-makes-first-court-appearance/UVSO2IJG3RLMA2X6N7HIELO6HI/ |newspaper=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |access-date=12 October 2021}}</ref>

Tamaki attended an anti-lockdown protest in Auckland on [[COVID-19 anti-lockdown protests in New Zealand#16 October|16 October]] and was subsequently arrested for breach of bail conditions.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Dillane |first1=Tom |title=Covid 19 Delta outbreak lockdown protests: Police warn prosecution of organisers imminent |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-delta-outbreak-lockdown-protests-police-warn-prosecution-of-organisers-imminent/I2O5Y4WR4ONTFAEZRMIF4YCHLE/ |access-date=17 October 2021 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]]|date=17 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211019154859/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-delta-outbreak-lockdown-protests-police-warn-prosecution-of-organisers-imminent/I2O5Y4WR4ONTFAEZRMIF4YCHLE/|archive-date=19 October 2021|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/453897/man-charged-and-taken-into-custody-over-breaching-level-3-rules-at-auckland-event |title=Man charged and taken into custody over breaching level 3 rules at Auckland event |work=[[Radio New Zealand]]|date=20 October 2021|access-date=20 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211023105614/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/453897/man-charged-and-taken-into-custody-over-breaching-level-3-rules-at-auckland-event|archive-date=23 October 2021|url-status=live}}</ref>

In early November 2021, [[Stuff (company)|Stuff]] identified Brian Tamaki as the "founder and architect" of the anti-lockdown "The Freedom and Rights Coalition" (TFRC) protest movement, which had organised nationwide anti-lockdown and anti-vaccination protests. The Stuff report also identified Jenny Marshall, Destiny Church's director of operations and Tamaki's assistant, as the owner of TFRC's web domain. Marshall confirmed that Tamaki was the leader of the TFRC but stated that the Coalition's merchandising and donations were separate from the Church's finances.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Somerville |first1=Troes |title=Covid-19: Destiny Church denies making profit from protest group's anti-lockdown merchandise |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/local-news/126840776/covid19-destiny-church-denies-making-profit-from-protest-groups-antilockdown-merchandise |access-date=9 November 2021 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=2 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105015310/https://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/local-news/126840776/covid19-destiny-church-denies-making-profit-from-protest-groups-antilockdown-merchandise |archive-date=5 November 2021|url-status=live}}</ref> In addition, Stuff reported that Brian and Hannah Tamaki maintained links with [[Groundswell NZ]]'s Pukekohe and Auckland coordinator Scott Bright, who donated vegetables to the TFRC and participated in an anti-lockdown protest in his personal capacity.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Porter |first1=Nadine |title=Groundswell NZ denies being anti-vax after founder shuns vaccination promo video |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/126844051/groundswell-nz-denies-being-antivax-after-founder-shuns-vaccination-promo-video |access-date=9 November 2021 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=2 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211104180702/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/126844051/groundswell-nz-denies-being-antivax-after-founder-shuns-vaccination-promo-video |archive-date=4 November 2021|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 23 November, Brian and Hannah Tamaki were summoned to the Auckland Central Police station for attending the Auckland Domain protest held on 20 November in breach of the form's bail conditions. In response, 100 supporters gathered outside the Police station in solidarity with the Tamakis. Brian denied breaching bail conditions and criticised the Government's [[COVID-19 Protection Framework]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Ensor |first1=Jamie |title=Brian, Hannah Tamaki: Large crowd gathers outside police station |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2021/11/brian-hannah-tamaki-large-crowd-gathers-outside-police-station.html |access-date=22 November 2021 |work=[[Newshub]] |date=22 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211122220711/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2021/11/brian-hannah-tamaki-large-crowd-gathers-outside-police-station.html|archive-date=22 November 2021|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Covid-19 Delta outbreak: Destiny's Brian and Hannah Tamaki summoned to appear at Auckland police station |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-delta-outbreak-destinys-brian-and-hannah-tamaki-summoned-to-appear-at-auckland-police-station/DPTDTLEIBEI2SLLKQTMF7WVCYE/ |access-date=22 November 2021 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=23 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211122221050/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-delta-outbreak-destinys-brian-and-hannah-tamaki-summoned-to-appear-at-auckland-police-station/DPTDTLEIBEI2SLLKQTMF7WVCYE/|archive-date=22 November 2021|url-status=live}}</ref> Auckland District Court Judge Steve Bonnar altered Tamaki's bail conditions to explicitly bar him from the Auckland Domain and from speaking at gatherings deemed unlawful by law enforcement authorities. Following an appeal, High Court Justice Geoffrey Venning allowed Tamaki to visit the Auckland Domain and Auckland Museum for recreational purposes but not protests. Tamaki was scheduled to face trial in April 2022.<ref name="NZH 26 December 2021">{{cite news |last1=Pearse |first1=Adam |last2=Leask |first2=Anna |title=Destiny Church's Brian Tamaki allegedly threatens to have future mobile vaccination clinics blown up, police investigating |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-churchs-brian-tamaki-allegedly-threatens-to-have-future-mobile-vaccination-clinics-blown-up-police-investigating/PTPTYKN7YSZO3EUEGXIHUB2UPU/ |access-date=27 December 2021 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=27 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211227092301/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-churchs-brian-tamaki-allegedly-threatens-to-have-future-mobile-vaccination-clinics-blown-up-police-investigating/PTPTYKN7YSZO3EUEGXIHUB2UPU/ |archive-date=27 December 2021|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 27 December, the Police launched another investigation of Tamaki after he threatened to blow up mobile vaccination clinics in opposition to the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines to children between the ages of 5 and 11. According to ''[[The New Zealand Herald]]'', Tamaki had made this alleged threat during a sermon held on 26 December, which was uploaded on Destiny Church's website.<ref name="NZH 26 December 2021" />

On 8 January 2022, Tamaki addressed an anti-lockdown and anti-vaccine mandate rally in Christchurch's [[Hagley Park, Christchurch|Hagley Park]], which he described as a "family picnic" rather than a protest. In response, Police launched an investigation into whether Tamaki had breached his bail conditions.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Law |first1=Tim |last2=Allott |first2=Amber |title=Brian Tamaki attends Christchurch anti-vax protest in apparent breach of bail conditions |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/127459305/brian-tamaki-attends-christchurch-antivax-protest-in-apparent-breach-of-bail-conditions |access-date=10 January 2022 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=9 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220110022738/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/127459305/brian-tamaki-attends-christchurch-antivax-protest-in-apparent-breach-of-bail-conditions|archive-date=10 January 2022|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Chittock |first1=Niva |title=Police investigate after Brian Tamaki speaks at Christchurch anti-vaccine protest |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/459280/police-investigate-after-brian-tamaki-speaks-at-christchurch-anti-vaccine-protest |access-date=10 January 2022 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=10 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220110022738/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/127459305/brian-tamaki-attends-christchurch-antivax-protest-in-apparent-breach-of-bail-conditions |archive-date=10 January 2022|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 17 January 2022, Tamaki was arrested for allegedly breaching his bail conditions. Police have previously stated they were investigating an anti-vaccine mandate rally held at Christchurch's Hagley Park on 8 January. Tamaki is not allowed to "organise or attend" any protest encouraging non-compliance with the Covid-19 Public Health Response Act 2020. In response, Tamaki denounced the arrest and commented that he was a political prisoner.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Owen |first1=Catrin |last2=Anderson |first2=Ryan |title=Covid-19: Brian Tamaki arrested for alleged breach of bail conditions |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/300497169/covid19-brian-tamaki-arrested-for-alleged-breach-of-bail-conditions |access-date=17 January 2022 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=17 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220117054028/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/300497169/covid19-brian-tamaki-remanded-in-custody-for-alleged-breach-of-bail-conditions|archive-date=17 January 2022|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Covid 19 Delta outbreak: Destiny Church's Brian Tamaki at Auckland District Court |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-delta-outbreak-destiny-churchs-brian-tamaki-at-auckland-district-court/WTKCPNSWPNZXGZOMB6RWN4RJUE/ |access-date=17 January 2022 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=17 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220117021542/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-delta-outbreak-destiny-churchs-brian-tamaki-at-auckland-district-court/WTKCPNSWPNZXGZOMB6RWN4RJUE/|archive-date=17 January 2022|url-status=live}}</ref>
Tamaki was remanded in custody for ten days for allegedly breaching his bail conditions by attending the Christchurch protest.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Owen |first1=Catrin |last2=Anderson |first2=Ryan |title=Covid-19: Brian Tamaki remanded in custody for alleged breach of bail conditions |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/300497169/covid19-brian-tamaki-remanded-in-custody-for-alleged-breach-of-bail-conditions |access-date=19 January 2022 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=17 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220117054028/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/300497169/covid19-brian-tamaki-remanded-in-custody-for-alleged-breach-of-bail-conditions |archive-date=17 January 2022|url-status=live}}</ref>

Supporters from Destiny Church and the Freedom and Rights Coalition camped outside [[Mount Eden Prisons|Mount Eden Corrections Facility]] for several days. On 22 January 2022, six pastors including [[City Impact Church New Zealand|City Impact Church]] pastor Peter Mortlock and pastors from the Grace Churches in [[Gisborne, New Zealand|Gisborne]], [[Tauranga]], and [[Rotorua]], Auckland's Covenant Church and South City Reformed Baptist Church objected to Tamaki's imprisonment, writing that he had been silenced for his dissenting views.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Burrows |first1=Matt |title=Kiwi pastors pen letter urging Brian Tamaki's prison release, say his arrest is 'warning sign' for Christians |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2022/01/kiwi-pastors-pen-letter-urging-brian-tamaki-s-prison-release-say-his-arrest-is-warning-sign-for-christians.html |access-date=27 January 2022 |work=[[Newshub]] |date=22 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122025901/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2022/01/kiwi-pastors-pen-letter-urging-brian-tamaki-s-prison-release-say-his-arrest-is-warning-sign-for-christians.html|archive-date=22 January 2022|url-status=dead}}</ref> Following nine days of imprisonment, High Court judge Paul Davison ruled in favour of Tamaki's appeal that the decision to remand him in prison was wrong. Davison granted Tamaki bail but barred him from attending, organising, supporting and speaking at future anti-lockdown protests and ordered him to reside at home on a 24 hour curfew.<ref>{{cite news |title=Brian Tamaki walks free: Destiny Church leader wins appeal against being remanded in custody |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/brian-tamaki-walks-free-destiny-church-leader-wins-appeal-against-being-remanded-in-custody/DY63GPZLD3RHWUMZA6RJUFWIQA/ |access-date=27 January 2022 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=26 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220126125551/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/brian-tamaki-walks-free-destiny-church-leader-wins-appeal-against-being-remanded-in-custody/DY63GPZLD3RHWUMZA6RJUFWIQA/ |archive-date=26 January 2022|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Sadler |first1=Rachel |title=Hannah Tamaki celebrates husband Brian's release from Mt Eden prison after nine-day stay |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/460237/judge-grants-brian-tamaki-s-bail-request |access-date=27 January 2022 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=26 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220126052018/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/460237/judge-grants-brian-tamaki-s-bail-request |archive-date=26 January 2022|url-status=live}}</ref>

In early November 2024 Tamaki, his wife, his executive, and one other man faced trial at the [[District Court of New Zealand|Auckland District Court]] on charges of organising a series of large public gatherings between September and October 2021 in contravention of Level 3 restrictions at the time.<ref>{{cite news |title=Brian Tamaki faces trial over alleged Covid-19 rule breaches |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/532749/brian-tamaki-faces-trial-over-alleged-covid-19-rule-breaches |access-date=11 November 2024 |work=[[RNZ]] |date=4 November 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241104031906/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/532749/brian-tamaki-faces-trial-over-alleged-covid-19-rule-breaches |archive-date=4 November 2024}}</ref> Tamaki and his co-defendants were defended by Ron Mansfield [[King's Counsel|KC]], who argued that the defendants did not intentionally break lockdown rules and that the group were unfairly targeted by Police.<ref>{{cite news |title=Brian Tamaki's lawyer suggests police faced pressure to take action over Covid-19 breaches |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/532912/brian-tamaki-s-lawyer-suggests-police-faced-pressure-to-take-action-over-covid-19-breaches |access-date=11 November 2024 |work=[[RNZ]] |date=5 November 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241111024511/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/532912/brian-tamaki-s-lawyer-suggests-police-faced-pressure-to-take-action-over-covid-19-breaches |archive-date=11 November 2024}}</ref> In mid-November, Judge June Jelas agreed to dismiss all charges except two against Tamaki and two against a second co-defendant. On 20 November Jelas, with the approval of the Crown prosecutor, dismissed the remaining charges against Tamaki and the co-defendant.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kapitan |first1=Craig |title=Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki walks free on Covid-19 protest charges |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/crime/destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-walks-free-on-covid-19-protest-charges/JFCP7HEG5BBEBIZPRGOU6TDOKM/ |access-date=20 November 2024 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=20 November 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241120074449/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/crime/destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-walks-free-on-covid-19-protest-charges/JFCP7HEG5BBEBIZPRGOU6TDOKM/ |archive-date=20 November 2024}}</ref>

===TFRC protests===
On 23 July, Tamaki's Freedom and Rights Coalition staged protests in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch to protest against various problems in New Zealand society including rising living costs, violence, housing shortages, healthcare sector strains, and excessive government farming regulations. Tamaki addressed protesters in the Auckland Domain. Protesters disrupted traffic in Auckland and Wellington.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Swift |first1=Molly |title=Police monitoring potential protest as Freedom and Rights Coalition aim to cause 'chaos' across New Zealand |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2022/07/police-monitoring-potential-protest-as-freedom-and-rights-coalition-aim-to-cause-chaos-across-new-zealand.html |access-date=28 July 2022 |work=[[Newshub]] |date=22 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220724092148/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2022/07/police-monitoring-potential-protest-as-freedom-and-rights-coalition-aim-to-cause-chaos-across-new-zealand.html |archive-date=24 July 2022|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title='Motorway mayhem': Protesters stop traffic on sections of Auckland motorway |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/motorway-mayhem-protesters-stop-traffic-on-sections-of-auckland-motorway/ITD3AGGP76ZO4NEM6RA73N4HEM/ |access-date=28 July 2022 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=23 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220724093312/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/motorway-mayhem-protesters-stop-traffic-on-sections-of-auckland-motorway/ITD3AGGP76ZO4NEM6RA73N4HEM/ |archive-date=24 July 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Brian Tamaki-led protesters stop traffic on Auckland motorway |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/07/23/brian-tamaki-led-protesters-stop-traffic-on-auckland-motorway/ |access-date=24 July 2022 |work=[[1News]] |publisher=[[TVNZ]] |date=23 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220724093533/https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/07/23/brian-tamaki-led-protesters-stop-traffic-on-auckland-motorway/ |archive-date=24 July 2022|url-status=live}}</ref> Following the 23 July protests, Tamaki announced plans to establish a new coalition with three minor parties to contest the [[2023 New Zealand general election]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Brian Tamaki breaks silence after anti-government protests |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/brian-tamaki-breaks-silence-after-anti-government-protests/GPYKFYYS2JIQTZX4EWA5CCW62A/ |access-date=28 July 2022 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=23 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220723042036/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/brian-tamaki-breaks-silence-after-anti-government-protests/GPYKFYYS2JIQTZX4EWA5CCW62A/ |archive-date=23 July 2022|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Anti-government protesters stroll onto Auckland motorway |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/471477/anti-government-protesters-stroll-onto-auckland-motorway |access-date=28 July 2022 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=23 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220726162312/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/471477/anti-government-protesters-stroll-onto-auckland-motorway |archive-date=26 July 2022|url-status=live}}</ref> On 16 August, Tamaki and his wife Hannah were issued with traffic infringement notices for causing traffic disruption during the 23 July Auckland protest.<ref>{{cite news |title=Brian Tamaki, Hannah Tamaki receive infringement notice for motorway protest |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/brian-tamaki-hannah-tamaki-receive-infringement-notice-for-motorway-protest/CIZQJCEH2H3LRMHZ5EXCREBK5Y/ |access-date=24 August 2022 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=16 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220816232547/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/brian-tamaki-hannah-tamaki-receive-infringement-notice-for-motorway-protest/CIZQJCEH2H3LRMHZ5EXCREBK5Y/ |archive-date=16 August 2022|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 6 August, Tamaki led another TFRC protest known as the "patriots day and march" at the Auckland Domain. The TFRC protesters were met by counter-demonstrators led by Mark Graham. Police kept peace between the two rival groups and sealed the Southern Motorway's ramps at [[Khyber Pass Road, New Zealand|Khyber Pass Road]] to prevent TFRC protesters from marching onto the highway and disrupting traffic.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Williams |first1=Caroline |last2=Killick |first2=Jonathan |title=Tensions between rival groups at anti-government protest in Auckland Domain |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300655526/tensions-between-rival-groups-at-antigovernment-protest-in-auckland-domain |access-date=7 August 2022 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=6 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220806181542/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300655526/tensions-between-rival-groups-at-antigovernment-protest-in-auckland-domain |archive-date=6 August 2022|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Hendricksen |first1=Lauren |title=Brian Tamaki-led Freedom and Rights Coalition demonstration met with 'FARC off Brian' counter-protest |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2022/08/brian-tamaki-led-freedom-and-rights-coalition-demonstration-to-be-met-with-farc-off-brian-counter-protest.html |access-date=7 August 2022 |work=[[Newshub]] |date=6 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220806085034/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2022/08/brian-tamaki-led-freedom-and-rights-coalition-demonstration-to-be-met-with-farc-off-brian-counter-protest.html |archive-date=6 August 2022|url-status=dead}}</ref>

On 23 August, Tamaki led a protest march outside the New Zealand Parliament in Wellington, which attracted between 1,500 and 2,000 protesters. They were met by 500 counter-protesters led by Pōneke Anti-Fascist Coalition. According to Wellington District Commander Superintendent Corrie Parnell, protesters, counter-protesters and the public were generally well behaved with no reported problems, arrests, or trespass orders being issued.<ref name="Stuff 23 Aug 2022">{{cite news |title=Parliament protest concludes without arrests or incidents |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/129646271/parliament-protest-concludes-without-arrests-or-incidents |access-date=24 August 2022 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=23 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220824010745/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/129646271/parliament-protest-concludes-without-arrests-or-incidents|archive-date=24 August 2022|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="RNZ 23 Aug 2022" /><ref name="Newshub 23 Aug 2022" /> During the Parliament protest, Tamaki launched a new umbrella political party called "[[Freedoms NZ]]" which consists of the [[New Nation Party]], [[Vision New Zealand]], and the [[NZ Outdoors & Freedom Party]].<ref name="Newshub 23 Aug 2022" /><ref name="RNZ 23 Aug 2022" />

On 28 September 2023, Tamaki and his wife Hannah led a TFRC protest against a scheduled "[[Agenda 2030]]" conference at the New Zealand Parliament in Wellington. They along with Outdoors Party leader [[Sue Grey (lawyer)|Sue Grey]] addressed the protesters. Members of the Pōneke Anti-Fascist Coalition staged a counter-protest outside Parliament. The Coalition's march coincided with similar protest activities in Wellington organised by [[Julian Batchelor]]'s Stop Co-Governance movement, the farming advocacy group [[Groundswell NZ]], and a gang [[hīkoi]] protesting against the [[New Zealand National Party|National]] and [[ACT New Zealand|ACT]] parties' anti-gang policies.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Molyneux |first1=Vita |title=Wellington protest: Freedom and Rights coalition march on Parliament ends, roads to reopen |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/roadblocks-up-wellington-waits-as-protesters-set-to-arrive/57YINY2AUBFWJEXT5BJX4TEK6M/ |access-date=30 September 2023 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=28 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230929053324/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/roadblocks-up-wellington-waits-as-protesters-set-to-arrive/57YINY2AUBFWJEXT5BJX4TEK6M/ |archive-date=29 September 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Iasona |first1=Seni |last2=Heikell |first2=Leighton |title=Wellington protests: Brian Tamaki promises peace as Stop Co-Governance, Freedoms & Rights Coalition descend on Wellington |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2023/09/wellington-protests-brian-tamaki-promises-peace-as-stop-co-governance-freedoms-rights-coalition-descend-on-wellington.html |access-date=30 September 2023 |work=[[Newshub]] |date=28 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230930120841/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2023/09/wellington-protests-brian-tamaki-promises-peace-as-stop-co-governance-freedoms-rights-coalition-descend-on-wellington.html |archive-date=30 September 2023|url-status=dead}}</ref>

On 31 January 2026, Tamaki addressed 1,200 TFRC protesters during a rally in [[Victoria Park, Auckland|Victoria Park]] in [[Central Auckland]]. They attempted to march on the [[Auckland Harbour Bridge]] but were blocked by a Police cordon at the Fanshawe Street motor ramps.<ref>{{cite news |title=Two protests in Auckland's CBD monitored by police with cordons, road closures |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/585561/two-protests-in-auckland-s-cbd-monitored-by-police-with-cordons-road-closures |access-date=31 January 2026 |work=[[RNZ]] |date=31 January 2026 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260131102614/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/585561/two-protests-in-auckland-s-cbd-monitored-by-police-with-cordons-road-closures |archive-date=31 January 2026 |url-status=live}}</ref>

===Response to Cyclone Gabrielle===
In March 2023, Tamaki blamed pornography, abortion, and gay rights for the devastation in the eastern North Island caused by [[Cyclone Gabrielle]]. Tamaki made these statements during an hour long sermon based on the [[Old Testament]] [[Book of Leviticus]]. He stated that [[Gisborne, New Zealand|Gisborne]] and [[Hastings, New Zealand|Hastings]] had the highest number of pornography consumers in New Zealand. Tamaki's remarks were condemned by [[Mayor of Gisborne]] [[Rehette Stoltz]], who described them as "disappointing, unhelpful and laughable."<ref>{{cite news |title=Cyclone Gabrielle: Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki blames porn, abortion, gay rights for tragedy |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/cyclone-gabrielle-destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-blames-porn-abortion-gay-rights-for-tragedy/VCUXZFEBDRH5HNISRXLP5D5O54/ |access-date=12 March 2023 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=1 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230308120223/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/cyclone-gabrielle-destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-blames-porn-abortion-gay-rights-for-tragedy/VCUXZFEBDRH5HNISRXLP5D5O54/ |archive-date=8 March 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Manhire |first1=Toby |title=Brian Tamaki blames porn use in Gisborne and Hastings for Cyclone Gabrielle disaster |url=https://thespinoff.co.nz/politics/01-03-2023/brian-tamaki-blames-porn-use-in-gisborne-and-hastings-for-cyclone-gabrielle-disaster |access-date=12 March 2023 |work=[[The Spinoff]] |date=1 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230305213025/https://thespinoff.co.nz/politics/01-03-2023/brian-tamaki-blames-porn-use-in-gisborne-and-hastings-for-cyclone-gabrielle-disaster |archive-date=5 March 2023}}</ref>

===2023 Israel-Gaza war===
During the [[Gaza war]], Tamaki led a pro-Israel rally outside the grounds of the [[New Zealand Parliament]] on 7 December, which attracted 400 supporters. Tamaki's group opposed calls for a ceasefire and submitted a petition to ACT MP [[Simon Court]] calling for Hamas and Hezbollah to be classified as a terror organisations and for sympathetic Members of Parliament to be expelled.<ref name="RNZ 7 Dec 2023">{{cite news |title=Pro-Israel protest organised by Brian Tamaki outside Parliament |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/504130/pro-israel-protest-organised-by-brian-tamaki-outside-parliament |access-date=10 December 2023 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=7 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207021231/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/504130/pro-israel-protest-organised-by-brian-tamaki-outside-parliament|archive-date=7 December 2023|url-status=live}}</ref> In response, members of the Poneke Anti-Fascist Coalition staged a counter-protest outside the [[Supreme Court of New Zealand|Supreme Court building]] in [[Lambton Quay]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Molyneux |first1=Vita |title=Wellington braces for another day of protest action |url=https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/brian-tamaki-plans-pro-israel-protest-outside-parliament-in-wellington/ |access-date=10 December 2023 |work=[[Newstalk ZB]] |date=6 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231206110051/https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/brian-tamaki-plans-pro-israel-protest-outside-parliament-in-wellington/|archive-date=6 December 2023|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="RNZ 7 Dec 2023" />

===Views on drag story events===
In mid-March 2024, Tamaki opposed two proposed [[Drag Queen Story Hour]] events at [[Rotorua]] and [[Hastings, New Zealand|Hastings]]'s municipal libraries.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Laura |title=Rotorua councillors clash over Library Rainbow Storytime event |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/ldr/512078/rotorua-councillors-clash-over-library-rainbow-storytime-event |access-date=26 March 2024 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=19 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240318195412/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/ldr/512078/rotorua-councillors-clash-over-library-rainbow-storytime-event |archive-date=18 March 2024}}</ref> Due to [[Drag panic|anti-drag queen]] opposition, these story events were cancelled.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Laura |title=Rotorua cancels drag queens' Rainbow Storytime for kids over 'safety concerns' |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/ldr/512228/rotorua-cancels-drag-queens-rainbow-storytime-for-kids-over-safety-concerns |access-date=26 March 2024 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=20 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240320051938/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/ldr/512228/rotorua-cancels-drag-queens-rainbow-storytime-for-kids-over-safety-concerns |archive-date=20 March 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Hastings council cancels drag queens' Rainbow Storytime after Destiny Church protest |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512740/hastings-council-cancels-drag-queens-rainbow-storytime-after-destiny-church-protest |access-date=1 April 2024 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=26 March 2024 |url-status=live |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330040856/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512740/hastings-council-cancels-drag-queens-rainbow-storytime-after-destiny-church-protest }}</ref> On 26 March, members of Destiny Church protested outside another drag storytime event at [[Gisborne, New Zealand|Gisborne]]'s library, who also painted over a rainbow crossing.<ref>{{cite news |last1=O’Connor |first1=Matahi |title=Rainbow crossing in Gisborne Main Street painted white ahead of drag-queen storytime event |url=https://www.gisborneherald.co.nz/news/rainbow-crossing-in-gisbornes-main-street-painted-white-ahead-of-drag-queen-story-time-event |access-date=26 March 2024 |work=[[The Gisborne Herald]] |date=26 March 2024 |archive-date=March 26, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240326202734/https://www.gisborneherald.co.nz/news/rainbow-crossing-in-gisbornes-main-street-painted-white-ahead-of-drag-queen-story-time-event |url-status=live }}</ref>

On 15 April 2024, Ford O'Connor, a member of Destiny Church who is married to Tamaki's granddaughter, pleaded guilty to vandalising the [[Karangahape Road]] rainbow crossing in [[Auckland]] in late March 2024 and was fined $16,093 to cover the repair costs. During the sentencing, Tamaki defended O'Connor, saying that "he undertook a political protest against the excessive rainbow-washing that is occurring across New Zealand right now, at the expense of our taxpayers and our ratepayers."<ref>{{cite news |last1=Plummer |first1=Benjamin |last2=Davison |first2=Isaac |last3=Williams |first3=David |title=Ford O'Connor pleads guilty, will pay $16k for vandalising K Road crossing; Brian Tamaki supports him |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-voices-unwavering-support-for-man-accused-of-vandalising-k-road-crossing/JPPLWQNGOZDXVKNFQ52QEI2WA4/ |access-date=17 April 2024 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=15 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240415195250/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-voices-unwavering-support-for-man-accused-of-vandalising-k-road-crossing/JPPLWQNGOZDXVKNFQ52QEI2WA4/ |archive-date=15 April 2024|url-status=live}}</ref> In mid-May 2024, Tamaki admitted responsibility for instructing his followers to vandalise the rainbow pedestrian crossing in Gisborne.<ref>{{cite news |title=Brian Tamaki claims responsibility for defacing Gisborne rainbow crossing |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/516896/brian-tamaki-claims-responsibility-for-defacing-gisborne-rainbow-crossing |access-date=27 June 2024 |work=[[RNZ]] |date=15 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240519065101/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/516896/brian-tamaki-claims-responsibility-for-defacing-gisborne-rainbow-crossing |archive-date=19 May 2024|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 27 June 2024, Tamaki, Destiny Church's trustees and several pastors were sued by drag performers Sunita Torrance and Daniel Lockett for inducing breach of contract, conspiracy to injure, unlawful means conspiracy, and defamation in relation to the disruption of their drag story events. In response, Destiny Church  said it would continue to advocate for children's well-being and accused the ''[[New Zealand Herald]]'' of promoting crowdfunding for the drag performers' legal case.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Blackwell |first1=Finn |title=Drag performers sue Tamaki, Destiny Church seeking $2m for defamation |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/520687/drag-performers-sue-tamaki-destiny-church-seeking-2m-for-defamation |access-date=27 June 2024 |work=[[RNZ]] |date=27 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627051345/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/520687/drag-performers-sue-tamaki-destiny-church-seeking-2m-for-defamation|archive-date=27 June 2024|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Transgender issues===
On 5 May 2024, Tamaki denounced the use of [[puberty blocker]]s for [[transgender]] children and youth people undergoing transitioning, according to Tamaki they were causing "irreversible damage." He also opposed the appointment of Dr [[Sue Bagshaw]] as the Government's lead investigator on the review of puberty blockers' suitability in New Zealand.  The following day, he and Pastor Derek Tait led a protest by Destiny Church members against Te Tahi Youth health service in [[Christchurch]], which helps [[transgender]] people access healthcare. Destiny supporters were met by counter-protesters while Police monitored the event. During a heated altercation, a teddy bear was thrown at Tamaki's car.<ref>{{cite news |title=Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki trans protest in Christchurch met with counter-protest |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-trans-protest-in-christchurch-met-with-counter-protest/SS4ASSRQ3ZDK5LJLIEOBILREZU/ |access-date=8 May 2024 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=6 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240507025345/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-trans-protest-in-christchurch-met-with-counter-protest/SS4ASSRQ3ZDK5LJLIEOBILREZU/ |archive-date=7 May 2024|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 14 May 2024, ''[[The New Zealand Herald]]'' reported that Tamaki was scheduled to speak at the upcoming "UNSILENCED: Middle New Zealand on ideology" at [[Wellington]]'s [[Tākina]] convention centre on 18 May alongside [[Family First New Zealand]] leader [[Bob McCoskrie]] and former [[New Zealand National Party|National Party]] MP [[Simon O'Connor]]. The Convention Centre is owned and operated by [[Te Papa Museum]] and [[Wellington City Council]]. Protest groups Queer Endurance In Defiance and the Pōneke Anti-Fascist Coalition denounced the conference for allegedly promoting [[transphobia]] and said it was contacting the Council in order to cancel the event on safety grounds. While Wellington City Council Māori Ward Councillor Nīkau Wi Neera called for the event's cancellation, [[Free Speech Union (New Zealand)|Free Speech Union]] chief executive Jonathan Ayling defended the conference on free speech grounds.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Howwell |first1=Azaria |last2=Manera |first2=Ethan |title=Review under way into 'anti-trans' event being held at Wellington's Tākina Convention Centre |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/review-under-way-into-anti-trans-event-being-held-at-wellingtons-takina-convention-centre/O5DMJUHBPFFFLFGKUK5V3ZM4GQ/ |access-date=16 May 2024 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=14 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240514025215/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/review-under-way-into-anti-trans-event-being-held-at-wellingtons-takina-convention-centre/O5DMJUHBPFFFLFGKUK5V3ZM4GQ/ |archive-date=14 May 2024|url-status=live}}</ref>

Following a safety review, Te Papa allowed the event to proceed, but said it would monitor the situation and expressed support for the LGBT community. Tamaki spoke at the Unsilenced conference, which was organised by Inflection Point NZ. O'Connor and British activist [[Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull]] (who participated via video-link) also spoke at the conference. 360 people attended the Unsilenced conference. A protest organised by Pōneke Anti-Fascist Coalition and Queer Endurance in Defiance attracted 500 people. A protester also released a bottle containing a foul-smelling substance outside the Convention Centre.<ref>{{cite news |title=Hundreds protest outside controversial conference in Wellington |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/517158/hundreds-protest-outside-controversial-conference-in-wellington |access-date=20 May 2024 |work=[[RNZ]] |date=18 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240519174916/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/517158/hundreds-protest-outside-controversial-conference-in-wellington |archive-date=19 May 2024}}</ref>

===Political rallies===
On 16 November 2024, Tamaki led a "Make New Zealand Great Again" motor rally in Auckland on 16 November in opposition to the [[Hīkoi mō te Tiriti]]. The group carried [[Flag of New Zealand|New Zealand flags]], which they said was in opposition to the "divisive" [[National Māori flag|Māori sovereignty flags]] of the Hīkoi to Parliament. The Make NZ Great Again rally caused traffic disruption on [[New Zealand State Highway 1]] after several participants exited their vehicles and marched on the motorway. A spokesperson denied that Tamaki organised the rally. Tamaki also criticised [[Te Pāti Māori]] MP [[Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke]]'s [[haka]] against the first reading of the [[Treaty Principles Bill]] in Parliament, describing it as a "Māori meltdown."<ref>{{cite news |title=Brian Tamaki convoy causes traffic woes in Auckland |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/533952/brian-tamaki-convoy-causes-traffic-woes-in-auckland |access-date=16 November 2024 |work=[[RNZ]] |date=16 November 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241116110640/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/533952/brian-tamaki-convoy-causes-traffic-woes-in-auckland |archive-date=16 November 2024}}</ref>

On 21 June 2025, Tamaki led a Destiny Church march in [[Auckland]]'s [[Aotea Square]] called "Faith, Flag and Family,” which opposed the spread of non-[[Christian]] religions and immigration in New Zealand. Tamaki and his supporters denounced the [[Muslim]], [[Buddhist]], [[Hindus]], [[Sikh]] and [[Palestinian]] communities, burning flags representing those communities. Pro-Palestinian counter-demonstrators also gathered in Aotea Square, with Police separating the two groups.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Lyth |first1=Jaime |title=Destiny Church's Brian Tamaki protests against 'foreign' religions in NZ |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-churchs-brian-tamaki-protests-foreign-religions-in-auckland/OQXMFSTJPJBBBKFWEMAATEISJQ/ |access-date=21 June 2025 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=21 June 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250621212440/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-churchs-brian-tamaki-protests-foreign-religions-in-auckland/OQXMFSTJPJBBBKFWEMAATEISJQ/ |archive-date=21 June 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kumar |first=Gaurav |date=2025-06-23 |title=New Zealand radical leader destroys Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh flags, performs haka |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/new-zealand-religious-leader-brian-tamaki-destroys-buddhist-sikh-hindu-islamic-palestinian-flags-performs-haka-auckland-2744923-2025-06-23 |access-date=2025-06-23 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref>

In September 2025, Tamaki led a contingent of 200 protesters from Australia and New Zealand who participated in British far right activist [[Tommy Robinson]]'s [[2025 British anti-immigration protests#Unite the Kingdom rally (13 September)|Unite the Kingdom rally]], which was attended by 100,000 people. Tamaki and his team also performed a [[haka]] in tribute to the slain [[Turning Point USA]] founder [[Charlie Kirk]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Ruru |first1=Karanama |title=Brian Tamaki says he attended Tommy Robinson's far right rally in UK |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360824360/brian-tamaki-attended-tommy-robinsons-far-right-rally-uk |access-date=20 September 2025 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=15 September 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250916110222/https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360824360/brian-tamaki-attended-tommy-robinsons-far-right-rally-uk |archive-date=16 September 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref>