What you need to know about new parking fees at New Zealand tourist destinations

Photo: SUPPLIED / DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION

Clarification: RNZ has updated the copy to clarify the company dealing with DOC site parking hardware and fees collection and enforcement is Stellar, not Stellar Projects. RNZ received incorrect company name information from DOC.​

Explainer - Rolling up to some of New Zealand's most popular tourist attractions will soon become a little more expensive, as parking fees begin at some of Aotearoa's hot spots in December.

It's starting as a trial run at three popular Department of Conservation (DOC) sites but if it's successful it could expand further.

Here's what you'll pay and where it will take effect.

Where are parking fees being launched?

Parking fees are set to begin at Aoraki/Mount Cook, Punakaiki/Pancake Rocks and Franz Josef/Wairau in December.

It's a pilot programme expected to last until June 2026.

"We expect a final date to be announced at the end of the month (November) following the install and testing on paid parking equipment," Department of Conservation director of heritage and visitors Catherine Wilson said.

How much will parking cost?

Parking will be $5 per hour.

The first 20 minutes will be free to allow for drop-offs and pick-ups or people staying for a brief time.

Read more: Department of Conservation information on the fees

For Aoraki Mt Cook there will be a daily rate of $25 per day, while at Franz Josef and Punakaiki there will be a daily rate of $20.

Commercial tourism operators who hold a valid concession will be granted a parking fee exemption during the pilot.

Will even locals have