However well we drive, most of us will at some point in our lives receive a traffic fine and these days, it may be problematic to pay the fine immediately.
Traffic fines may be issued by Auckland Transport [AT] (parking fines, driving in a bus lane etc) or from the Ministry of Justice, (speeding fines etc).
The simplest way to deal with fines is to pay them within the time limit given, but if you disagree with the fine, or are unable to pay immediately, there are various options open to you.
If you wish to dispute a fine, the AT website or Ministry of Justice website gives plenty of information about the situations in which a fine may be waived, and how to go about disputing it.
Website details and contact numbers can be found on your infringement notice.
If your financial situation means you cannot immediately pay the fine, you have various options.
The AT website gives information about paying through a Zip app, where you can pay the fine in four instalments, over six weeks.
If this is too difficult, you can contact the relevant authority and ask to pay in smaller instalments. Make sure you ask, though, when the fine needs to be cleared by.
In some cases, even if you have been making small regular payments, at a certain point, the debt may be referred to a collection agency – potentially affecting your credit rating – or referred to the court, where court fines will be added to the original debt.
If you need help with issues relating to fines, you can contact us at CAB and we will assist you.
If you call in at our offices between 9.30am and 4pm (Pakuranga) or 9.30am and 1pm (Botany), an interviewer may be able to call the issuing agency on your behalf provided you give your permission. No appointment is needed.
- This Solutions Column has been compiled by Mary and is a regular Times editorial from the Pakuranga Citizens Advice Bureau. Email enquiries.pakuranga@cab.org.nz or visit us at the Library Building, Pakuranga, Phone 576 8331 and at Botany Citizens Advice Bureau, rear Food Court Entrance, Botany Town Centre, Phone 271 5382 or 0800 367 222 for free, confidential and informative help.
