New Zealand police have launched an investigation after a rainbow crossing in Auckland was “painted over,” says Sky News host Rita Panahi.

Ms Panahi said the police are calling the incident a “hate crime”.

She said they have “vowed to bring the three offenders to justice”.

“Of course, we do not condone any sort of vandalism,” Ms Panahi said.

“I do wonder whether the men were just equine enthusiasts who were concerned that horses would be spooked by the rainbow crossing.”