Two hours of free on-street parking in Hamilton’s central city is set to return in July 2026, following a decision made by Council on Thursday 28 May.
The decision will be formally adopted at a Council meeting on Thursday 25 June, as part of the Long-Term Plan and Annual Plan review.
From Wednesday 1 July, two hours of free parking will apply to short-stay on-street parking spaces, as part of a simplified single parking zone replacing the current green and yellow zones. After two hours, parking will cost $6 per hour across the zone.
Mayor Tim Macindoe said the decision reflects strong community support for the proposal to reinstate two hours free parking, during public consultation from 2 April to 3 May 2026.
“I was pleased to see strong support for the restoration of two hours of free parking in our central city. It reflects exactly what we heard throughout the election campaign, and it honours my commitment to Hamiltonians to ensure our CBD is more accessible and welcoming for everyone.
“While this change will not solve every parking challenge, it reflects this Council’s commitment to listening to the community. It’s an important step in the right direction to encourage people back into the heart of our city, and support our central city businesses, service providers, retailers, and hospitality sector.”
Hamilton City Council’s Acting Director of Transport Martin Parkes said to receive two hours free and avoid a parking fine, people must register their vehicles at a kiosk, including Touch n Go, or through the PayMyPark app, even for stays under two hours. Registering is simple:
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find a kiosk (there’s at least one per street) or download the PayMyPark app
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enter your number plate
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select your time and confirm.
If you stay longer than two hours, you will need to pay for additional time.
“Registering your parking helps us manage demand and keep parking turning over, so people can find a park throughout the day,” said Parkes.
What you need to know
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Changes are planned to take effect from 1 July 2026.
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You must register your vehicle to receive free parking and avoid a parking fine.
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Parking is free for up to two hours, then $6 per hour.
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Charges apply Monday to Saturday, 8am to 8pm.
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Parking is free outside these hours, and on Sundays and on public holidays.
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No changes to all-day, off-street, mobility, or taxi parking.