Noise pollution is difficult to define because, outside
occupational areas, one person's noise may be another person's
enjoyment. Noise pollution is considered under the Resource
Management Act 1991 to be excessive noise under human control that
unreasonably interferes with the peace, comfort and convenience of
other people. Long-term exposure to noise has been associated
with stress and with increased risk of heart attacks, poor
educational and work performance, absenteeism, aggression and
depression. Children are particularly sensitive to all types of
noise.
Between 1991 and 2009, the number of noise complaints (excluding
barking dogs) received by the Christchurch City Council increased
from 4,115 to 13,344 per year, with residential complaints making
up 92% of complaints in making up 92% of complaints in
2009.
Read the full issue summary for noise
pollution [PDF].