The Hong Kong government on Thursday urged protesters to end a blockade of the city centre immediately, saying their actions were affecting public order and the provision of public services.

"About 3,000 government offials will try their best tomorrow to return to work as (much) as possible. To maintain public service, the government headquarters must operate as usual," the government said in a statement.

"We urge the Occupy Central leaders and organisers to stop the movement immediately."

In a separate briefing, Steve Hui, senior superintendent of the Hong Kong police force, urged protesters not to block or charge at government buildings, saying police would take action in accordance with the law if they did.

Protesters have been occupying parts of Hong Kong since last weekend, demanding that Hong Kong's leader, Leung Chun-ying, step down, and to voice their support for full democracy in the Chinese territory to allow them to freely choose their own leader.