Department of Conservation director of heritage and visitors Catherine Wilson said the locations and prices were chosen after comprehensive market research and engagement with Treaty partners, stakeholders and the community.<\/p>\n
Annual passes will also be available at $10 for West Coast locals and $60 per vehicle for other regular visitors.<\/p>\n
Commercial tourism operators who hold a valid concession will be able to apply for a parking fee exemption for the duration of the pilot.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe introduction of a paid parking programme enables visitors to contribute to conservation facilities as they are out naturing,\u201d Wilson said.<\/p>\n
A packed Franz Josef Glacier car park, 2017. Photo \/ Department of Conservation<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is standard practice at many national parks overseas and most international visitors accept this as a necessary contribution to support amazing nature sites.\u201d<\/p>\n
The pricing structure aimed to answer submitters\u2019 calls for an initial free period, special consideration for locals, free parking for concessionaires and a reasonable price for regular users and occasional visitors, Wilson said.<\/p>\n
The trial was estimated to bring in about $1m from the Dolomite Point and Franz Josef parking spaces over the seven-month trial, which will run until June.<\/p>\n
Parking management service Stellar had been appointed to manage parking during the trial, Wilson said.<\/p>\n
Payment machines will be installed at the sites and cameras will record the entry and exit of vehicles. Non-payment of parking fees will incur breach notices, which will be issued by Stellar.<\/p>\n