Hopefully This Works
Oct 17, 2007
Dear Auckland City Council Officer,
I am writing you to appeal for leniency regarding a fine for a traffic infringement observed on 4 October 2007. A few days ago, I received a notice reference #T7540359 stating that my vehicle #RQ1122 was seen traveling on the bus/bike lane on Khyber Pass Road at 4:32 p.m. It also stated that the applicable infringement fee is $150 and to respond with driver details on the blue sheet. When I read the letter, I was totally surprised that I was cited for a traffic offense, as try to my best ability to be a safe and responsible driver. Reading the details over, I couldn’t figure out what law I broke until my flatmate explained the green bus lane rules. I’m an American here on working holiday and have only been driving in Auckland for a couple months, so I was totally unfamiliar with that traffic law. I know that’s no excuse, but I was genuinely ignorant of the fact that it was impermissible to drive on the bus lane at those time. I thought the times stated on the signs were for when the lanes had to be cleared of parked cars so that busses can pass through. I actually parked on those lanes for work and made sure I relocated the car before 4 p.m. everyday.
Replaying my routine for driving home from work, I can see where I would’ve committed the offense on the short stretch of Khyber Pass Road. However, please be understanding of the fact that I wasn’t purposely rushing through traffic or using it as a passing lane or a shortcut. I was simply unaware that I was doing anything wrong, though I am WELL aware of rule now since receiving the notice. I will certainly to be observant of that traffic restriction from now on. Please take all this into consideration when you review repealing the fine.