A council plan to set up more paid parking at one of New Zealand's hottest summer spots has been met with community backlash.

Mount Maunganui was set to introduce more paid parking meters this summer season- but that plan has been delayed after residents and business owners voiced opposition.

Tauranga Business Chamber CEO Matt Cowley says paid parking has been regarded as an unpopular decision by Mount Maunganui business owners.

"We need the commissioners focusing on the bigger issues in the long-term plan, we don't want them to pick a fight with the community."

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