Five central-city car parks would offer free weekend parking from 5 December to 10 January under a plan announced on 29 October to encourage Christmas shoppers into Wellington.
The proposal covers Barnett Street, Clyde Quay, Frank Kitts, Clifton Terrace and Tory Street car parks. The mayoral announcement said a majority of councillors had signed the notice of motion.
Councillor Andrea Compton lodged the motion seeking the change for the 2026–27 festive season. Clifton Terrace’s inclusion would also require approval from NZTA.
Existing time restrictions and enforcement would remain, helping spaces turn over so other visitors can use them. The proposal is for the five named council-owned or operated car parks, rather than a citywide removal of parking charges.
Mayor Andrew Little said the intention was to give central-city retailers extra support over Christmas and encourage more people to shop locally.
“We want the central city bustling this Christmas, and free weekend parking gives people one more reason to come in, shop local and stuff the stockings with everything Wellington has to offer.”
Compton encouraged people from across the region to spend time in the central city, highlighting the mix of independent retailers, locally made gifts and international brands within walking distance.
“Wellington’s central city offers something different. We’d love people from across the region to make a day of it and discover the shopping gems right in the heart of the Wellington region.”
Wellington Chamber of Commerce chief executive Hayley Horan welcomed the proposal, saying central-city businesses had faced a challenging year.
She described free weekend parking as a practical way to encourage visitors and support retailers and hospitality businesses, rather than an immediate solution to all their difficulties.
The 29 October announcement outlined a further approval step: chief executive Matt Prosser was asked to progress the arrangements, including consultation with NZTA, before final approval would be sought from councillors.
The proposed free-parking period runs from Saturday 5 December 2026 to Sunday 10 January 2027, with the concession applying on weekends only.
