Australian police arrested 170 climate activists over the weekend after their floating blockade briefly disrupted activity at one of the world’s largest coal ports.

The fleet of kayaks, paddle boards and inflatable boats blocked the entrance to the Port of Newcastle, which exports millions of tonnes of coal each year.

Police said on Sunday evening 156 adults and 14 youths had been arrested and charged with offences including 'disruption of a major facility'.

Australian correspondent Steve Price says shipping was temporarily paused as the group blocked at least one major vessel from entering the port.

"The Greens leader was there, looking like a fool, they were called 'numbskulls', and it was dangerous - really, really dangerous. We'll wait and see what happens in court."

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