Parking infringement fees are set to increase from 1 October 2024, as the Government ‘cracks down’ on car park misuse.
The fees, which are set by central government and enforced by local authorities, will be increasing for the first time in 20 years to align with inflationary changes.
Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston and Transport Minister Simeon Brown said the changes have also been made to stop people from misusing carparks reserved for disabled people, levelling the playing field and preventing unnecessary disruptions to their day-to-day lives.
In addition, the regulated fees for towage and impoundment will be increasing, as the current fees no longer cover tow-truck operators’ costs, leaving them out of pocket.
The changes mean that common infringement fees like overstaying a park for no more than 30 minutes will increase from $12 to $20. The most prominent fee increase however, is illegally parking in an area reserved for disabled persons, which will increase from $150 to $750.
As of 1 October 2024, anyone who is issued a parking infringement anywhere in New Zealand will receive the increased fee. All Councils are required to use the new fees and are unable to make any amendments for their own territories.
Residents can read the full Government announcement here: www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government-update-parking-penalties
