Upswing in parties leads to more noise complaints

Christchurch City Council is asking party organisers to be mindful of their neighbours as it deals with a significant rise in noise complaints.

In November and December 2021, the Council received 3022 noise complaints – 645 more complaints than it received in the same two months in 2020.

“One of the factors contributing to the increase in noise complaints is that more social events are taking place in people’s homes,’’ says Council Head of Regulatory Compliance Tracey Weston.

“With traditional entertainment venues only able to host limited numbers and many large events and concerts cancelled due to COVID-19, people have been opting more to party at home. Unfortunately that has led to an increase in the number of noise complaints coming through to us.’’

Ms Weston says many of the complaints could be avoided if people organising parties:

• Let neighbours know beforehand and stuck to an agreed finish time.
• Controlled the music level and moved everyone inside after 10pm.
• Avoided large gatherings of people outdoors.
• Reminded guests to leave quietly.

“Often it is the loud use of stereos in residential neighbourhoods that cause the most concern. If you’ve got the stereo on, keep the volume down, especially late at night. And keep the bass control low – deep bass sound travels easily.’’