Fines for overstaying or parking illegally have increased.
The fine for remaining in a car park for less than 30 minutes past the expiry time on the meter increases 66% - up from $12 to $20.
The Gisborne Herald last week reported the fine for parking in a disability park had risen 500% - from $150 to $750.
Gisborne District Council director of internal partnerships and protection James Baty said parking infringement fees, which the Government sets and the council enforces, had gone up for the first time in 20 years.
“The amount motorists will pay for parking in Tairāwhiti won’t increase - the fine for overstaying or parking illegally will,” he said.
“The increase helps us to monitor restricted parking spaces, keep vehicles moving to benefit businesses and give everyone a fair chance to park in town, close to shops, eateries and amenities.
“We would also like people to remember these are national changes and our parking officers are merely doing their job by enforcing them.”
In the CBD, there is about 1000 free all-day car parks available “within easy walking distance of Gladstone Rd”.
The increased fines for parking at an expired meter or displaying an expired parking authorisation are:
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No more than 30 minutes, increases from $12 to $20.
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More than 30 minutes but not more than one hour, increases from $15 to $25.
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More than one hour but not more than two hours, increases from $21 to $36.
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More than two hours but not more than four hours, increases from $30 to $51.
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More than four hours, increases from $42 to $71.
The new fines came into effect on October 1.
