Media Release
5 February, 2009

NFD wants tougher action on boy racers

The National Foundation for the Deaf (NFD) wants tougher action on New Zealand’s boy racers as their constant noise could be damaging our health.
Marianne Schumacher, executive manager of the National Foundation for the Deaf, says the Government needs to move swiftly and firmly on the culprits who are literally driving residents to despair with their loud exhausts, screeching tyres and excessive car stereos.

“The effect of this noise pollution is far more than hearing damage – it can have a huge impact on our physical and mental health. Persistent noise has been linked with increased stress levels, headaches, aggressive behavior, loss of sleep and in some cases even heart disease and high blood pressure.” says Ms Schumacher.

Stuart Camp, director of Marshall Day Acoustics has spent considerable time during the past year on the streets of Christchurch to record the noise levels boy racers are making.

“One series of test we conducted showed that modified cars averaged 95dBA (at 0.5m), with some cars being four times as loud as standard ones.” says Camp.
“The noise the boy racers produce is excessive and unnecessary. Everyone has a fundamental right to freedom but when your actions so heavily impact the lives of others, something must be done.”

Noise pollution is an issue high on the agenda for the NFD. Ms Schumacher says there is a gap in the publics’ awareness that the Foundation is now trying to close.

“The impact of annoying noise has far reaching affects with some research showing strong links between exposure to constant noise and irritability and in some cases, violence.” concluded Ms Schumacher.

ENDS

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