Noise Complaints

It is accepted that a certain amount of noise is part of the normal human environment. Traffic noise, aircraft noise, industrial noise and residential noise form part of the background to everyday life. Generally, noise is not a problem unless it becomes excessive.

Under New Zealand's environmental laws, Hastings District Council has the responsibility for controlling excessive noise in our district, within certain limitations.

Making a Complaint

Step 1: You should try to speak to whoever is making the noise and ask them to turn it down. If this is not practical or successful...

Step 2: Contact the Council on 06 871 5000 (24 hours).

When you contact the Council, a Noise Control Officer is sent out to investigate your complaint. They determine whether the noise is reasonable and within permissible levels. If the noise is deemed to be excessive, they may serve a written direction to reduce the noise, which can remain in force for up to 72 hours.

Penalties

Failure to obey the notice can result in stereos or equipment being seized and a fine of up to $10,000.

Infringement notices resulting in $500 instant fines can be issued and/or some instances, for example when noise equipment can not be seized.

If you are the noisemaker and you feel the complaint is unjustified, contact the Council to discuss your concerns.

Noise complaints are confidential; the noisemaker is not advised of who has complained.

Noise Control Brochure

Read our noise control brochure (PDF 1MB) for an overview of your rights and reponsibilities around noise.

Contact

For noise related complaints contact the Resource Management group at the Council on 06 871 5000 24 hours.