Finding a park when you need one matters, whether you’re visiting local shops, heading to an appointment, or supporting local businesses.

As Horowhenua grows and town centres get busier, Horowhenua District Council is introducing new licence plate recognition technology that will help monitor time-limited parking more consistently and efficiently and help keep parking officers safe.

Instead of relying solely on parking wardens walking streets and manually checking vehicles, Council will also use a camera-equipped vehicle to monitor time-limited parking areas in busy town centres.

Council’s Group Manager Customer Experience & Services Brent Harvey said the investment reflects Council’s focus on delivering smarter, more efficient services while keeping affordability front of mind.

“Through careful budget reviews and operational efficiencies, we’ve worked hard to reduce proposed rates increases while continuing to invest in practical tools that support essential services.

“Technology like this helps us deliver services more efficiently. Our focus is on fairness and compliance, making sure everyone is playing by the same rules. This technology allows us to cover more ground and identify non-compliant parking more quickly.

Any associated increase in parking revenue reflects that improved coverage and helps offset costs that would otherwise fall on ratepayers. If you park appropriately, there is no cause for concern.”

In the coming weeks, the community may notice a Council vehicle fitted with camera equipment operating in town centres as the technology is introduced.

The system works by using cameras mounted on a Council vehicle to scan licence plates in time-limited parking areas. By driving through an area more than once, the technology can identify vehicles that may have stayed longer than the permitted time.

Any potential breaches are reviewed by a trained Council officer before any parking ticket is issued.

Harvey said the aim is simple: fairer parking and better access to busy areas.

“Parking rules and time limits are not changing - this is simply a more efficient way of monitoring them.

“Time-limited parking only works when spaces turn over regularly. This technology will help make it easier for people to find a park when they need one.”

Already used by councils around New Zealand, the technology may also help Council better understand parking demand and plan for future growth.

More information, including frequently asked questions about how the technology works, privacy protections, and where it will be used, is available at horowhenua.govt.nz/LPR.

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