Wellington Regional Office
Media Release

5 August 2004

Transit targets vehicle sales on state highways

Transit New Zealand will be cracking down on illegal vehicle sales on the sides of state highways over the next few months. The growing number of vehicles for sale in the greater Wellington region is hindering traffic safety.

Transit’s acting regional planning manager Kirsten Wierenga said it is becoming popular for people to park their vehicle for sale on the side of a highway, but many people aren’t aware this is illegal.

“Drivers are easily distracted by cars for sale and are likely to slow down or stop, often at unsafe sites. This can affect the safety of other road users and hinder the flow of traffic,” she said.

Transit can tow offending vehicles through a bylaw named “Bylaw Prohibiting the Sale of Vehicles on State Highways” adopted in 1999. The bylaw prohibits people advertising the sale of vehicles on a state highway.

Ms Wierenga said one area the problem has become noticeably worse is the Wairarapa, particularly in Masterton and Carterton, and on the Kapiti Coast.

“There’s been a significant increase in illegal vehicle sales within the 50km zones of these towns, and we’re concerned about the rise in numbers.”

“In the past, we had a problem with cars for sale along Mana Esplanade on State Highway 1, but this was resolved when Transit released information and erected signs to warn motorists,” she said.

Ms Wierenga advises vehicle owners not to park vehicles for sale on the state highway network and that they risk being towed. Vehicle owners should contact their local council before considering selling their vehicles in other locations.

ENDS

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