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This image appeared on Auckland Museum's Facebook and Instagram pages. Photo: Facebook / Auckland Museum

Auckland Museum - Figure 1
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Palestine supporters are calling for Auckland War Memorial Museum to apologise for staging a light display in support of Israel on Sunday night.

Auckland Museum lit its building up in blue and white.

On social media, the museum said it had lit up "in solidarity with Israel".

"Our thoughts go out to the many civilians impacted as a result of the terrorist attack a week ago.

"As a war memorial, we value the importance of peaceful dialogue and understanding.

"We condemn all acts of violence and terrorism. This evening the museum is lit in blue and white in condemnation and as an expression of hope for peace."

Researcher Dr Arama Rata said within hours, about 100 people had gathered outside the museum, many holding Palestine flags and chanting "Free Palestine".

Auckland Museum - Figure 2
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She said a verbal confrontation arose between the Palestine supporters and a group of Israel supporters.

Dr Rata said Palestine supporters subsequently covered the lights with red fabric blacking out the display.

She said the museum must issue a formal apology to the community, saying its actions have caused deep divisions for people who are already hurting.

The New Zealand Jewish Council said it was dismayed to see pro-Palestinian protesters outside the museum last night.

Spokesperson Juliet Moses said it was up to the museum to respond.

"I would leave that up to the various internal process of the council or the police or whoever, but I think that whoever started that protest last night and participated in it should think very carefully about their humanity."

Auckland Museum - Figure 3
Photo RNZ

Police said officers were at the museum for several hours following the clash between Israel and Palestine protesters.

A police spokesperson said it was called to the museum and monitored the protest.

A number of police were onsite to maintain the peace from 6.30pm until 9pm when all protesters had left.

There were no reports of injury and no arrests made.

Auckland Museum has been contacted for comment.

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