Parking management plays an important role across the Auckland region. It helps prioritise
the safe and efficient movement of people, services and goods, supports the economic
development of Auckland’s business districts, and helps facilitate a transformational shift
towards public transport and active modes, such as cycling and walking. In order to alleviate
on-street parking issues and assist with Auckland’s economic development, Auckland Transport has
recently introduced a new parking strategy. Key aspects of this strategy include more
regular management of on and off street parking availability in centres, introduction of residential
parking schemes in busy residential areas, managing parking along arterial roads to support
public transport, and changes to parking permits. Where parking demand is high, AT will apply
various parking restrictions to achieve a target occupancy rate of 85% for on-street
parking. This means that the parking resource is well used but people can still easily find
a space. When peak parking occupancy is regularly above 85% in town centres, AT will recommend
removing time limits and applying demand responsive pricing.
Demand Responsive Pricing means that the prices charged for on-street parking will be adjusted
up or down with the goal of maintaining on average 85% occupancy at peak times. This
means customers should always be able to find a space.
There is a ten minute grace period on on-street paid parking so there is no need to pay for
short visits. Also, AT is removing time limits from paid parking so people have flexibility
on how long they stay. The price will encourage vehicle turnover not a rigid time limit. This
approach has shown to dramatically decrease the number of infringement tickets issued.
With pricing being introduced in some areas, a common question is what happens with any
revenue? All revenue collected from paid parking, including parking enforcement, is used to
fund broader Auckland Transport projects, and helps to offset funding from Auckland
Council. This includes road maintenance, new public transport services and major infrastructure
improvements, such as new bus and train stations. AT will proactively manage parking in town
centres by producing Parking Management Plans. These plans will measure the supply and demand
of parking across the centre and look to recommend changes to improve access to parking. The
needs of all users will be assessed from deliveries and short-term parking, to taxis and mobility
spaces. AT will also work with businesses on alternative travel options such as public
transport and car sharing. Aucklanders told us that high levels of commuter
parking are affecting the liveability of inner city suburbs. In these areas residential parking
schemes may be introduced to free up space for residents and their visitors.
AT is introducing an account based phone parking system called AT Park.
This will allow you to check parking rates and availability, and pay for parking via
a phone app or phone call. This system means you don’t have to guess how long you’re
going to be. Simply “tag-on” when you park and “tag-off” again when you get
back to your car. You’ll only pay for the time you’ve used and it will significantly
reduce the chance of getting a parking ticket."
Parking enforcement is an essential component of the transport system. Enforcement encourages
compliance with restrictions and the turnover of vehicles, to allow access to parking in
town centres. Enforcement also keeps traffic and public transport flowing on key arterial
roads, and enables access to private property. Overall the Parking Strategy improves access
to town centres and residential areas contributing to local economies. It will reduce congestion
by freeing up parking spaces allowing traffic and public transport to flow more freely.
Auckland is growing and the limited parking supply is under increasing pressure. We need
to ensure that land we dedicate for parking is being used effectively. We realise change
is never easy, but we are all working towards making Auckland the world’s most liveable city.