Grey Power South Otago members recently discussed the misuse of mobility parking in the Balclutha area, particularly at supermarkets.
Recently, Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston and Transport Minister Simeon Brown announced increased penalties for the misuse of mobility parking, the adjustment of parking infringement fees to allow for inflation, and updating towage and impoundment fees.
The changes took effect from Tuesday.
The recent change means people who are caught parking in an accessible parking spot without their sticker can face a $750 fine.
This is for public areas only.
It does not apply to areas such as supermarkets, which are on private land.
Balclutha resident Paul Hill said it was difficult to get to and from the grocery store when the wrong people parked in the parks.
"It’s hard because people like me are just trying to get in and out of the shop without too much hassle.
"The parks are there for a reason and laws should be put in place for people who are flouting them."
He had a mobility card but did not use it all the time.
"I just use it when I need to, as I have a bad back," he said.
"I’m happy when I don’t have to use it, but some people seem to be entitled and park there at any time without a card."
He wanted to create a solution for the issue.
"I am not taking a swipe at Woolworths or New World or anyone at all.
"It is just an issue we want fixed.
"Those parking spots are precious for those who really need them.
"It’s upsetting to see people misusing them most times I visit the stores and even in public areas.
"Even if there was a job for someone to become a parking warden voluntarily or similar, I would even do it because I advocate for people like myself.
"I don’t fancy myself getting into conflict at 76 years old, though."
Grey Power South Otago president Gwynneth Butler questioned who monitored mobility parking on private land.
"Who actually is responsible and what do they do to stop people from parking in these parks?" she said.
"If it’s on private property then police aren’t coming around to monitor them, so it’s harder for people who need these parks to access them when needed.
"It can be a real headache trying to get in and out of shops as an older person, especially if you end up having to walk far to your car."
A Woolworths New Zealand media spokesperson said if an unauthorised vehicle was parked in a mobility park, one of their team will often make an in-store announcement asking the owner to remove the vehicle.
"Further intervention is considered in the context of the potential reaction of the owner, as there have been instances where intervention has resulted in aggression towards our team.
"Unauthorised vehicles may be issued a breach notice but are not towed, nor clamped.
"We recognise the importance of mobility parks for our community and would ask anyone who notices an unauthorised vehicle in a mobility park to let our team in store know.
"We have over 185 stores in a variety of locations including freestanding stores where we control the carpark and shared sites where parking forms part of a shopping centre."
