Blatant misuse upsetting

SIGNAGE: David Senior in one of the new style vivid-blue disabled parking spaces.

Abuse of disabled parking spaces remains rampant in the Far North, despite a move to paint them bright blue so able-bodied drivers can't claim they didn't notice the signs.

The vivid blue colour scheme came in two years ago but has done little to quell misuse, according to Disability Action Group chairman David Senior.

The Kaitaia man said the problem was only likely to get worse with the Christmas holiday period approaching.

"We had hoped the brighter and more distinctive markings would help discourage all drivers other than those with mobility parking permits from taking up these spaces," he said.

"Unfortunately that doesn't appear to have happened and the inconsiderate practise continues. The excuse that they didn't notice the disability signs really doesn't wash any more."

"It may not seem like a big deal, but depriving a disabled driver or disabled passenger of a mobility parking space can mean they are unable to carry out an important errand, such as visiting a doctor, a chemist, simply getting their weekly food supplies or carrying out any of the daily necessities of life that are simple tasks for those lucky enough not to be impeded by some form of disability."

The new colour scheme had been adopted throughout most of the country so drivers could no longer use the excuse that the signage was different in other districts.

Mr Senior again appealed to the public to take care when parking, avoid using disability parks at all times unless they have disability parking permits, and to report any obvious misuse.

"The council can't monitor every parking space in the district. We need the community to help us support the disabled by reclaiming these spaces for their rightful users. Permits are not necessarily confined to those in a wheelchair. Elderly people required to use a walking stick and those who have temporary disabilities as a result of hospitalisation can obtain permits if required. The issue is with people who don't qualify for parking help and who blatantly ignore the rules," he said.

"The elderly and impaired are entitled to the same quality of life as the able-bodied and all we are asking for is understanding and a little courtesy."

People who park illegally in mobility parking spaces risk an instant fine of $150.