New parking enforcement technology is easing the ability to find free short stay parks in the centre of Queenstown, Queenstown Lakes District Council utilities general manager Mark Kunath said.

The meter eye technology, which electronically alerts parking wardens to vehicles which have exceeded the free parking time, has now been installed throughout the CBD area.

"Since the system has been operational I am pleased to say that we have been receiving positive feedback from the community, specifically that people are finding it easier and faster to find a free, short term park," Mr Kunath said.

Parking wardens had received feedback on the streets that the community felt the new technology had made a positive difference.

"I'm delighted this investment is paying off and is actually being accepted by the community as a positive tool. It was never intended as a revenue gathering exercise but as a mechanism for ensuring short term parking is available in the centre of town, as and when required. To that end it appears the meter eye is working well," QLDC councillor Rick Pettit said.

The council had deliberately provided 30 minute free parking in the centre of town, a service that could only work if the public observed the time limit, Mr Pettit said.

"The emphasis is on utility and convenience, not revenue," Mr Pettit said.

The device had put an end to members of the community who had abused the short term free parking and congested the availability of parks.

"That's basically taken those vehicles out of the centre of town and created a fair parking regime for everyone. That means happy customers and happy retailers. It's a win all round," Mr Kunath said.

ENDS

For further information please contact Mark Kunath 03 441 0499.

By: Sarah