Wellington councillors mull free weekend parking over festive season

Wellington City councillors are proposing free weekend parking in council-owned parking buildings in the city for over a month during the festive period.

Under the plan, parking would be free on weekends between 5 December and 10 January at Barnett Street, Clyde Quay, Frank Kitts, Clifton Terrace and Tory Street carparks.

Current time restrictions would remain.

Mayor Andrew Little and northern ward councillor Andrea Compton said the move would help the city's businesses.

Compton lodged a notice of motion for the move, advocating for a range of independent stores in the central city.

Little said the council wanted the central city "bustling" this Christmas, and free weekend parking gave people a reason to travel in.

The city's Chamber of Commerce said the move would help retailers and hospitality businesses after a tough year.

The council said chief executive Matt Prosser would now make arrangements for the free parking, including consulting with the New Zealand Transport Agency, before the full council made a final decision.