Few local issues have stirred as much debate recently as paid parking in Petone and fee increases city-wide. I share the frustration and voted against introducing the new parking meters and several other fee hikes. Here's why I believe the timing and approach were wrong.
Bad Timing for Business
Retailers are struggling. Cost of living pressures are biting. And the next couple of years will bring major disruption—Jackson Street pipe replacements and the RiverLink project will make access harder for customers, retailers, and property owners. Adding parking fees just adds more pressure.
Revenue Over Vibrancy
These parking changes were primarily designed to raise more money for Council. But vibrant retail centres should be the heartbeat of our city—not treated as revenue streams. Decisions like this should protect, not punish, our local business community.
Short-Sighted Strategy
Keeping rates down is important. But hiking parking fees to achieve it an easy way out. A smarter approach is to drive genuine efficiencies — curbing Council costs that rise faster than inflation every year.
It's Not the Right Time
There may come a time when parking fee increases make sense. Last year wasn’t it, and this year isn’t either.
If I’m re-elected, I’ll push for a full review of parking charges in Petone and the CBD. Let’s put our residents and retailers first—and build a city that works for everyone.
