Auckland Pride has been quick to accuse Winston Peters of 'conspiratorial fear-mongering' following his criticisms of Green MP Benjamin Doyle.

The Deputy Prime Minister has criticised historic Instagram posts by Doyle that included sexually suggestive captions.

Greens co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick says Peters' constant attacks fan the flames of hate - with Doyle receiving death threats.

Auckland Pride chair Bhen Goodsir says the language Doyle used was designed to connect with vulnerable communities.  

"As I understand, this was just one photo and a whole reel of photos that Benjamin posted - and their role was to connect with communities. So what we're seeing here is the intersection of their work, their identity as a queer person, and their role as someone who's part of a family."

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