So I’m sure you’ve all heard of how PM Helen Clark’s security entourage blocked all the mobility parking spaces outside Christchurch’s Town Hall last week.

What that did, interestingly, is bring this debate over the misuse of mobility parking spots into the mainstream, and the NZ Herald has a really fascinating debate going on over here on this exact subject. Here are a selection of my favourite comments:

Tow the offending vehicle to the farthest corner of the car park and wheel clamp it for seven days.

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I have never parked in one of these parks.
But these disabled people seem to scream about it like it’s the end of the world.
Some of these disabled people with permits look ok when they get out of their car. If they are too crook they shouldn’t be driving anyway.

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Get rid of mobility parking completely. Talk about the arrogance involved in segregating the population based on physical condition.

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Cut the fines out and get rid of mobility-impaired car parks! These people clearly need the exercise. Make them walk.