Police have broken up anti-lockdown protests in Nelson, Tauranga and Auckland today.

Four people have been arrested in Tauranga and four in Auckland

Among them was controversial musician and political hopeful Billy Te Kahika who was arrested at an anti-lockdown protest in central Auckland.

He was leading about 50 people gathered outside TVNZ, on the corner of Victoria and Hobson streets at about midday.

Police first issuing Te Kahika a warning, before arresting him about 12.43pm.

Police Commissioner Andrew Coster says the vast majority of New Zealanders are however complying with restrictions.