Crack down over disability parking

People illegally parking in disabled spaces are causing concern in the Kaipara. Photo / File

Fourteen fines for parking in mobility spaces were issued during a two-hour patrol as part of a crack down on problem parkers in Dargaville.

There were six mobility parks in the town where Kaipara District Council said it would take a stronger stance against drivers without permits using spaces set aside for the disabled - an infringement punishable with a $150 fine.

"We have taken a stronger stance as a result of the number of cars parking illegally in the business district and have ramped up patrols in the area," said KDC acting general manager regulatory and planning Ken Swanepoel.

Parking wardens from Environmental Northland Ltd were currently monitoring the CBD for at least two hours a day, at various times.

The council was also focusing on parking on yellow lines and asking for community support for the blitz.

Mr Swanepoel said Victoria St and outside the Hokianga Rd pharmacy were particular areas of concern.

"But that doesn't mean motorists can get away with illegal parking elsewhere." "Yellow lines are there for a reason, to ensure our residents can park safely and prevent accidents. Equally, dedicated parking for those with disabilities are provided so they are not disadvantaged as they go about their daily activities. When motorists break the laws, they can expect to be issued with infringement notices."

Jonny Wilkinson, chief executive of disabled persons' advocacy organisation Tiaho Trust, said he had not had any specific feedback about parking problems in Dargaville, though the problem was clearly "over the top" based on the number of fines.

He said he was "absolutely" supportive of KDC cracking down on infringers.

"In Whangarei we've seen a reduction in parking abuse for a number of years," Mr Wilkinson said. "We aren't aware of parking being an issue in Dargaville, but then there's no Disability Advisory Group there, which usually would be at the forefront [of the issue]."