Protests in Peru are on hold over the festive season, but tensions remain high as locals are told to stay indoors. The New Zealand Embassy said the well-being of New Zealanders stranded in the country is of major concern. The Embassy said it has been working with local authorities to take care of stranded New Zealand citizens, providing food and medical support as well as organising their evacuation. A New Zealander in Peru, Garth Warner, said protests on are on hold until 3 January, but locals are told to stay home. “We couldn’t get to a hospital if we wanted to, the roads are blocked off with big rocks, trees and officials there won’t let you pass.” He said protesters have died at the hands of the Peruvian military. (https://www.msn.com/en-nz/news/national/quite-a-few-number-of-deaths-new-zealander-in-peru-on-protests/) Since the dismissal of former President Pedro Castillo, who was detained after illegally trying to dissolve congress, violent protests have erupted around Peru. Last week, the international airport in Cuzco was reopened after the damage caused by protesters was repaired.