Two hours of free on-street parking returns to Hamilton’s central city from today (1 July 2026) giving Hamiltonians and their visitors more time to enjoy the things they love, like shopping, dining, and so much more.
Hamilton City Council’s Mayor Tim Macindoe warmly welcomed two hours’ free parking back with a video to help parkers learn what they must do to receive free on-street parking on select central city streets.
“It’s important to remember that you must register your vehicle’s number plate in order to receive your two hours of free parking,” said Mayor Macindoe.
“This can be done using the PayMyPark app, the Touch n Go units, or at any of our traditional parking kiosks found along every central city street.”
Click here to watch the video with Mayor Tim
“Just in time for the school holidays, we’re making it easier than ever to get into the city and enjoy everything on offer. Whether it’s shopping, dining, an appointment with a service provider, going to see a movie, a family outing to Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum, or catching a show at the BNZ Theatre, there’s something for everyone,” said Mayor Macindoe.
Following the return of two hours’ free, Council will turn its attention to a broader central city parking review, which will explore more ideas to keep improving parking and access to the central city. Staff findings will be presented at the 10 November Transport Subcommittee meeting for consideration to include as part of the next long-term plan.
What you need to know about parking in the central city:
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You must register your number plate at any of the traditional kiosks, the Touch n Go units, or PayMyPark app to receive your two hours’ of free parking.
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Green and yellow parking zones are removed, replaced by a single hourly paid parking zone. After your first two hours’ parking will cost $6 per hour across the zone, no matter what street you’re parked on.
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Charges apply Monday to Saturday, 8am to 8pm. Parking is free outside of these hours, and on Sundays and public holidays.
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Two hours free does not apply to all-day paid parking spaces, off-street car parks, mobility parking spaces, loading zones, time restricted parking, or taxi stands. All day parking must use the PayMyPark app, not the kiosks.