How to not get a fine

Parking rules are made to keep people safe, keep traffic moving and make sure parking is fair for everyone.

Getting a fine can be frustrating and costly, but there are easy ways to avoid one. Our goal is to help everyone use our streets safely and confidently. 

That's why we've created the 'How to not get a fine' video series. These short videos show the most common parking mistakes and how to avoid them. 

Watch the videos to learn what to look out for when parking and how to park legally. 

Broken yellow lines

Broken yellow lines show where parking is unsafe, often because:

• the road is too narrow
• there's a hazard nearby
• visibility is restricted or would be if a vehicle parked there.

Do not park on broken yellow lines. This helps keep traffic flowing and pedestrians safe.

Bus lanes

As the city grows, bus lanes become essential for moving more people efficiently. 

There are specific rules about when you can enter a bus or transit lane, this includes only using the lane for the minimum length necessary to make a left turn.

Make sure you know the rules to avoid a fine.

Visit how to use bus and transit lanes for more information.

Blocking driveways

Parking or stopping in front of a driveway is more than an inconvenience - it can create safety risks for residents. 

Driveways must remain clear at all times so people can enter and exit safely. 

Overstaying parking

Free parking with time limits helps more people access busy areas. If you stay longer than the time allowed, you prevent others from using these spaces. 

Check the signs when you park and stick to the time limit. 

School gate safety

Unsafe parking or stopping during school drop-offs and pick-ups puts children at risk. 

Follow the rules and park safely near school gates to keep students safe. 

Camera cars

Auckland Transport (AT) uses camera cars with license plate recognition to check for parking and vehicle compliance. 

They can detect: 

• unpaid parking
• expired time limits
• illegal parking, such as on yellow lines or blocking driveways
• unregistered cars or expired WOFs.

The AT Park app

You can use the AT Park app to pay for on-street parking and AT parking buildings without getting out of your car. 

With AT Park you:

• only pay for the time you use
• can add more time easily if you're running late.

Find out more about the AT Park app.

Trailers, boats and jetski

If you're heading out on the water, make sure you follow the rules to avoid a fine and stay safe. 

Here are some key things to remember: 

• register your trailer and jetski
• do not park your trailer on the beach or berm
• do not go faster than 5 knots on your boat or jetski within 200m of shore
• always wear a life jacket.

Learn more about safety on the water.