I would like to clarify the situation regarding the above, as the perception seems to be a little misleading.
The Council always ticketed unwarranted or unregistered vehicles, no matter how overdue. Vehicles overdue within four weeks (period of grace) had the opportunity to make the vehicle roadworthy within 14 days from the date of the ticket. If this happened the fine was waived. If not the fine applied. If the WOF or registration was more than four weeks overdue, there was no period of grace and the fine applied.
The amendment I proposed will follow exactly the same procedure but instead of a four week grace period there will now be eight weeks. This still gives the owner 14 days from the date of the ticket to make the vehicle roadworthy. If this is completed the fine is waived, if not the fine applies. If the WOF or registration is more than eight weeks overdue, there is no period of grace and the fine applies.
Some Councils in NZ ticket unregistered and unwarranted vehicles, and some do not.
Police support Councils that do, as this takes some pressure off police resources, but at a cost.
Fines paid are split 50% to the Government and 50% to your Council.
Therefore as Council has the power to issue these tickets, we should be firm but also fair towards the vehicle owner.
I am happy to be contacted by anyone wishing to discuss this further.
Cr Bill Grainger, Welcome Bay.