Papamoa lawyer Tony Rickard-Simms said some offences were "fine-only" offences such as parking tickets or disorderly behaviour, so courts had no alternative penalties. Overdue fines racked up quickly when enforcement fees were added, so a $300 fine, for example, could rise to $1000 if left unpaid, he said.
"The courts' hands are tied because that's all that Parliament provides - you can be fined and that's it.
"If someone fronts up in court they may have a swag of fines but the only option available to the magistrate is another fine and it just seems self-perpetuating.
"Many of those with outstanding fines were on welfare or minimum wage, and fines could escalate faster than they can pay it, even with attachment orders to their wages or their benefits."
Many offenders could not afford to register or warrant their cars, meaning they risked fines. However, fines had their place as a first measure for courts before more serious enforcement measures were undertaken.
Diane Bruin, service co-ordinator at Tauranga Budget Advisory Service said 30 per cent of clients had unpaid fines.
"Parking fines can be very expensive so number one they need to address the fine and start making some payments as soon as possible ... "
Nationwide, offenders owe nearly $400 million in unpaid fines.
