Lime Cafe's John Paul Tolentino is unsure if Rotorua's upcoming parking changes will bring positive change.
Rotorua mayor Tania Tapsell is defending upcoming parking changes after a backlash against a reduction in free parking spaces.
From 1 July, control of Rotorua's parking services will return to council hands, bringing a sweeping overhaul of inner-city parking.
Some 823 spaces will begin requiring a permit, including some previously free parks along Queens Drive, Hinemaru Street and Kuirau Park.
Parking permits will cost $12 per day, $25 per fortnight, $50 per month or $130 for three months, applying Monday to Friday between 9am and 3pm.
