- New parking restrictions are proposed to address extended vehicle parking on Stewart Island.
- Southland District Council suggests 30 new restrictions and adjustments to 16 existing ones.
- Police may assist with parking enforcement if the council's bylaw is updated.
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Residents of Stewart Island/Rakiura could soon face tighter parking restrictions similar to those seen in bigger cities. Southland District Council has proposed new parking rules in response to increasing complaints about vehicles being left for long periods in popular areas—sometimes for several months.
A council report noted, “evolving needs and use of parking on the island” showed restrictions could be necessary in some areas. The main reasons for extended parking were identified as people working shifts or leaving the island temporarily.
To address these issues, council staff have recommended 30 new parking restrictions along with adjustments to 16 existing ones. The changes would mainly affect day parking and would not accommodate vehicles left for more than 12 hours.
“This will require those leaving the island for longer periods to consider alternative options which do not rely on leaving their vehicle in the town centre,” the report said.
Oban, the island’s main settlement, has been identified as the area most affected by parking congestion, with Golden Bay also contributing to the problem.
Although parking enforcement is not currently managed by the council, Police have indicated they would be willing to enforce the restrictions if the bylaw is aligned to reflect the new rules. This bylaw update will be discussed by councillors during their meeting on Wednesday and would be open for public consultation between 10 October and 8 November if approved.
Other proposed changes include removing a car park on Elgin Street and introducing one-way systems on streets near Observation Rock.