INDEPENDENT NEWS

Get off the grass

Published: Tue 14 Oct 2008 10:06 AM
Immediate release October 13, 2008
Get off the grass
Parking on the grass could be illegal if the Government has its way.
“The rule amendment is one of many likely to pass unnoticed, as it’s part of a bigger raft of changes to Land Transport rules headlined by amendments to the cell phone regulations,” says NZ Motoring Writers’ Guild president Jacqui Madelin.
“The government’s discussion paper expresses concern about damage to the grass surface and access for pedestrians where there’s no footpath, but dismisses safety concerns,” she says.
Most drivers park on the grass where parking on the roadway would obstruct traffic or risk an accident. Any parked vehicle may reduce visibility, but keeping the roadway clear should be a priority.
Perhaps of more concern to homeowners is that it’s not always easy to be sure where the grass verge ends and your garden begins.
“Few people know it’s already illegal to drive a motor vehicle on a lawn, garden or other cultivation that is adjacent to a road,” she says. “It’s a moving offence but parking officers can’t ticket it – yet; a policeman is needed.”
“The Guild supports road safety, and many of the minor measures in the 42-page discussion document. There should be a speed limit when towing a disabled car; we should wear our seatbelts properly; but not all the proposed amendments are as sensible,” she says.
The Guild urges New Zealanders to have their say. Simply log on to www.nzta.govt.nz/consultation, click on the ‘Draft Land Transport Rule’ and read what’s proposed – the overview is clearly laid out, and it’s possible to make your submission by email. Deadline for submissions is October 16.
ENDS

Next in New Zealand politics

Concerns Conveyed To China Over Cyber Activity
By: New Zealand Government
GDP Decline Reinforces Government’s Fiscal Plan
By: New Zealand Government
New Zealand Provides Further Humanitarian Support To Gaza And The West Bank
By: New Zealand Government
High Court Judge Appointed
By: New Zealand Government
Parliamentary Network Breached By The PRC
By: New Zealand Government
Tax Cuts Now Even More Irresponsible
By: New Zealand Labour Party
View as: DESKTOP | MOBILE © Scoop Media