Response to ‘City parker wins victory over tow firm’ article

In response to ‘City parker wins victory over tow firm’ published by The New Zealand Herald 4.15am Wednesday march 19 2014.

Supercity Towing does not accept that this case illustrates a victory for vehicle owners parking without authorisation. Due to a false technicality the public has been misled into believing the company has breached regulations by not completing a tow authority.

Supercity Towing confirms that the tow authority was completed with all details as specified in the Land Transport Rule 2007. The mediator understood that the tow authority must be signed by the landlord.

Land Transport Rule, Section 10 Recovery Services

10.9(e) the name, address, and, where practicable, the signature of the person ordering the vehicle to be moved

10.10(2) If a person listed is not available, the driver of the vehicle recovery service vehicle must record the name, address, and contact telephone number of the person who requested that the tow be undertaken.

The majority of property managers ring in requests and are not based at the site. However, Supercity Towing holds all contact information; written consent and all requests are electronically logged at the time of call.
“My role is to ensure that we as a company have strong communication channels with all our customers and are meeting our legal obligations as a tow operator” states Daniel Lawson, Customer Relationship Manager for Supercity Towing.

Daniel said “Supercity Towing has advanced systems in place which incorporates GPS tracking systems, electronic tow tracking and reporting procedures along with dedicated staff of all areas of business. These things far exceed all current legislation in place for vehicle recovery services as they were established so many years ago before obtaining information was as simple as a click of a button”.

Supercity Towing does not agree with The Automobile Association suggesting that it is ok for motorist to use private car parks if they are not doing any harm. It impinges on the rights on the property owners and harm also includes physical, non-physical, financial, and inconvenience.

The service of towing also includes additional security and hugely assists as a deterrent to vandalism and undesirable behaviours.

“The car park is next to a brothel which their patrons violate constantly. There are multiple businesses operating on that site, some which aren’t just 9-5. You don’t want to see or hear what kind of things happen in the car park and imagine if they were given free reign? At the end of the day, they (the lease holders) pay for the spaces 24 hours 7 days a week” Says Daniel.

AA principal regulatory adviser Mark Stockdale commended Mr Ooi for standing up for his rights.

“What rights does Mr Ooi have while he is trespassing on private property? I didn’t tell him to park in front of a sign that says do not park there!” “It’s rich coming from them (Mark Stockdale & Nikki Preston), who does the AA and The New Zealand Herald call when someone is parked in there spaces? They call me. They have been quite happy with the numerous I have towed for them over the years.” Said Supercity Towing Director, Craig Burrows.

The company had not paid the amount by the due date as tribunal ordered $262 ($250 refund plus $12 taxi fee) but the summary incurred a misprint stating $562. Supercity Towing also reserves the right to appeal the decision before April 5th.

© Scoop Media