Letter to the Editor: Tuesday February 21, 2017

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Turning a blind eye?

Having just received my one and only driving infringement in 29 years of driving (parked the wrong way outside Folders, and yes I will pay the $40 penalty), I'm a bit confused, as I see people who continually do this without fear of being ticketed.

One just has to look at the parking in Commerce Street, where cars, vans etc seem to be able to park in the disabled spots without any problem even though they don't display a disabled sticker.

There are a plethora of cameras that are monitored 24/7 we are told, so you can't tell me they don't see it going on.

Having said that, the person/people who do the monitoring don't seem to see the cyclists/skateboarders on the footpath either.

I have never seen any vehicle being given a ticket.

Is it a case of ticketing some but not others?

You'll see in North Road, Allen Bell Drive to name two, vehicles parked on the footpath facing the wrong way for most of the day and night with no fear of repercussions.

I'd be curious to know how many tickets have been issued to vehicles that are for sale parked outside car dealerships which clearly state one-hour parking restrictions.

Why turn a blind eye to what should be a nice little earner for the council, or is it a case of the council/parking person deciding who gets a ticket and who does not?

I have contacted the council, asking how many tickets have been issued over the last 12 months in Commerce Street and North Road to satisfy my curiosity, but I won't hold my breath.

Just looking for a level playing field, but I doubt that will happen any time soon.

PS: I actually didn't know we had a parking warden in Kaitaia, as I have never seen him/her....ever!

CURIOUS
Kaitaia