Bailey Smith, a 22-year-old from Christchurch, returned from a lengthy work trip to discover several notices from Parking Services Limited in his mail.

He received a NZ$95 ($84.53) fine for parking outside a Riccarton laundromat in March and accrued further charges due to non-payment.

An NZ Parking Association spokesperson stated their revised code mandates that members offer drivers a “consideration period” to evaluate terms and a grace period before enforcing penalties.

It said drivers needed time to decide whether to stay, and a reasonable chance to leave.

“These guidelines aim to guarantee fairness, particularly for brief stays, while allowing operators to manage their parking areas effectively,” they explained.

Parking Services Limited was not a member of the association, the spokesperson said.

A Parking Services Limited representative highlighted the importance of enforcement in protecting the interests of local businesses dependent on private parking for customers.

“Numerous small businesses, ranging from laundromats to mechanics and salons, frequently contend with non-customers occupying spaces meant for patrons,” they noted.

“This includes using the lot as a shortcut, a U-turn point, or as a convenient place to drop off or pick up passengers.

“We urge drivers to take a moment to read and respect the signage on private property.”