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] - last updated November 2011.