A new device which can signal an overstay on limited time free carparks has been installed on Church Street, Queenstown Lakes District Council utilities manager Mark Kunath said.

"The meter electronically signals the parking wardens if a car has gone beyond the allowable time limit. That makes it a hugely valuable tool when you are trying to enforce limited free parking spaces of 15 or 30 minutes or five minute loading zones," Mr Kunath said.

The system which was only planned to be installed on free parking spaces would help keep the use of free parks both fair for all and also turning over at the planned rate, which in turn had benefits for retailers.

The Council had deliberately provided the time restricted P30 parks on a ?free no charge basis, Councillor Rick Pettit said.

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

Only 10 meters had initially been installed for training and testing, with more planned in July.

"This is one of several initiatives to ease the perceived frustration our community has with parking in the CBD. It may also encourage those able to walk a few minutes to seek longer stay metered parking or free parking further from the centre of town," Mr Kunath said.

ENDS

For further information please contact Mark Kunath 03 441 04 99.

By: Sarah