PM shocked at claim motorcade blocked disabled parks

Helen Clark's motorcade has attracted complaints before.

Prime Minister Helen Clark says she is seeking information on claims her security detail blocked disabled parking bays in Christchurch on Friday night.

Helen Clark has asked police to explain why an 81-year-old man with Parkinson's disease had to struggle down the street after officers refused to let his wife park outside a theatre.

Marshall Leaf had to be helped to his car by ushers from the Christchurch Town Hall, after police cordoned off a pick-up area for the Prime Minister's cars.

Helen Clark today said she had requested information on the incident, which she only found about when contacted by media.

"Obviously I was very shocked at the report."

Canterbury police district commander Superintendent Dave Cliff has apologised for the incident.

It followed the introduction on Thursday of a $150 fine for using a disabled parking space without a valid permit.

Last night, Inspector Alan Weston said police would investigate what had happened.

It is not the first time a police motorcade for the Prime Minister has resulted in complaints.

In 2004, five police and a civilian driver were charged after rushing her from Waimate to Christchurch Airport so she could fly to a rugby test. All eventually escaped conviction.