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 responsibility for controlling excessive noise in our district, within certain limitations.

To make a noise complaint

Contact Council anytime, day or night; phone +64 6 871 5000. Noise complaints are confidential; the noisemaker is not advised of who has complained.

Penalties

Failure to obey excessive noise duration notices can result in stereos or other noise-making equipment being seized. If stereo equipment is seized, there is a cost to the noise maker. See Councils fees page - Licence fees - environmental health.

Infringement notices resulting in fines can also be issued in some instances.

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

Noise control information

See our noise control brochure (in the 'related documents' section at the bottom of this page) for an overview of your rights and responsibilities around noise.

For answers to commonly asked questions, see Council's noise FAQs.

Contact

To discuss noise related issues during business hours email Council and one of our team will contact you.