Call to keep neighbourhood noise down

Rowdy neighbours are causing problems for people working from home or supporting stressed family members during the COVID-19 shutdown.

The Christchurch City Council has received 188 noise complaints – including 159 after hours – since 25 March. Most relate to loud music.

Council Head of Regulatory Compliance Tracey Weston says that there has been a marked increase in noise complaints over that period.

“However, noise complaints during the first weekend of the lockdown have dropped compared to previous weekends,” Ms Weston says.

“Whether it is DIY enthusiasts making the most of their shutdown-imposed isolation or neighbours turning up the volume to tone down their boredom, everyone needs to be aware that many people are working from home or caring for stressed family members.

“We are urging everyone to consider their neighbours during this difficult period and keep the noise down – both during the day and the night.

“For many people, they are not only hard at work in a cramped home environment but also dealing with children or teenagers, or perhaps elderly family members living in their bubble.

“We are asking you to support your local community by not adding to the stress with loud noise, no matter the time of day. Please be considerate of your neighbours.”

The Council responds to all noise complaints – day or night.

During the day, staff first contact people by phone to attempt to resolve the issue.

If they are unable to deal with the complaint by phone – and for all noise-related calls during the night – the Council’s after-hours service provider for noise control, Armourguard, visits the property that is subject to a complaint.