Holiday ends with a ticket

A couple returned from holiday to find the local council had painted no-parking road markings around their vehicle - and given them a parking ticket for violating the new rules.

Wellington designer Martha Craig said her parents had just returned from a holiday in France when they found the unwelcome homecoming present.

She posted a message on Twitter saying: "My parents went overseas. While they were away HCC painted road markings around their car, put up signs and gave them a parking ticket."

"One way to make revenue I suppose," she added.

When contacted, Craig said her parents were private people and did not wish to comment further.

She said they lived in Petone. Parking restrictions had recently changed due to expansion at local polytechnic Weltec, and increased traffic. High St has brought in residents-only parking after consultation because of the traffic.

A Hutt City Council spokeswoman said it had not received any complaints but encouraged the couple to get in touch.

"If they do have a problem then we would be happy to speak to them about it."

Residents in High St said the new parking scheme was brought in with the blessing of all residents.