New parking meters and technology (Parking as a Service)
- Project typeTransport
- Project valueTo be confirmed
- Project scheduleNew parking meters and technology in use from 1 July 2027
- Contractor nameTo be confirmed
This project is about replacing ageing parking equipment and making the system easier to use. It does not change parking fees, time limits or parking zones.
We are replacing Whangārei’s parking meters and the systems used to pay for parking, and to check that parking rules are followed.
Why we are doing this
- Many of our parking meters are some of the oldest in New Zealand and are near the end of their life.
- Currently, parking checks are mainly carried out on foot. New tools will help officers cover paid parking areas more efficiently and apply parking rules more consistently.
- The Whangārei District Parking Strategy, adopted by Council in June 2025, asks us to make better use of technology.
Whangārei District Parking Strategy
How it will work
Council is planning a service-based model where the successful supplier would provide, install, maintain and update the technology over a 10-year period from 1 July 2027.
What is included
- New parking meters. You will type in your vehicle’s number plate when you pay. You won’t need to put a ticket on your dashboard.
- A phone app to pay for parking and add more time without going back to your vehicle.
- Number-plate cameras on parking enforcement vehicles. This is called licence-plate recognition.
- New handheld devices for parking officers.
- A website where you can see the photos and details of a parking ticket (infringement) before you decide to pay it or challenge it.
- Better information about how busy our parking is and when, to help us plan for the future.
What changes for you
- You will have more ways to pay – cash, card or contactless payment at the meter or through the app.
- This project does not change parking prices, time limits or parking zones. Council decides those separately.
Parking officers
Parking officers from Council’s regulatory services contractor will continue to check parking, using the new tools. Number-plate recognition will help officers cover more streets and support fair, consistent checks. An officer will review every parking ticket before it is issued.
Your privacy
The cameras record vehicle number plates, along with photos, the time and the location. This information will be used for parking management, including checking parking, issuing and reviewing parking tickets, and understanding how busy parking areas are.
The contract will set strict rules about:
- how number plate information is used
- where it is stored
- how long it is kept.
Photos that don't lead to a parking ticket will be deleted within 24 hours. If you get a parking ticket, you can see the photos online before you decide to pay or challenge it.
When it will happen
- Late 2026: We ask companies to submit proposals.
- Early 2027: We sign the contract with the most suitable supplier.
- February to June 2027: New equipment is installed and tested, and staff are trained.
- 1 July 2027: The new parking meters and technology start.
Closer to the time, we will tell you where the new meters are and show you how to use the meters and the app.