Invercargill City Council is encouraging vehicle users to be mindful of their parking as Central Government increases parking infringement fees across the motu.

As of October 1, fees will increase an average of 70 percent for overstaying and inconsiderate parking. This only applies to Council-operated parking areas.

Manager Environmental Services Gillian Cavanagh said the last time the fees were set was in 2004.

Central Government had indicated the current fees did not match inflation and have set new ones accordingly, she said.

The minimum parking infringement of $12 for overstaying less than 30 minutes in a park will increase to $20, while overstaying for more than six hours will rise from $57 to $97.

The most significant fee increase applies to incorrect use of a mobility park, which has been raised from $150 to $750 for those parking without a disability permit.

Cavanagh said the increase for parking in a mobility spot reflected the lack of consideration of those using it without the proper permit.

“Mobility parks are vital for those who struggle to walk long distances and need easy access to facilities in town. People abusing these parks make life a lot harder for those with disabilities.

“Even if you think you are only going to be five minutes that time could totally disrupt someone who really needs that park. To avoid a fine, it’s best to avoid those parks in the first place if you don’t hold a permit.”

Council is reminding people to double-check they have parked correctly and properly activated parking machines.

Parking payments will remain unchanged at the various Council-operated parking areas in Invercargill CBD. All metered parking in the city is 30 minutes free once it is activated by entering your number plate. To pay for parking, drivers can use the PayMyPark app, as well as coin and Paywave kiosks throughout.

For more information, visit Parking | Invercargill City Council (icc.govt.nz).