20 October 2004

New $125,000 noise monitoring system at speedway

Auckland City is monitoring speedway noise with a new $125,000, remote controlled monitoring system at Western Springs Stadium – the first of its kind in New Zealand.

The system represents the latest technology and can monitor noise 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The new 5m-tall device is equipped with a weatherproof microphone and noise-level analyser. It also records wind speed and direction – essential information for noise control enforcement because weather conditions have a significant impact on noise levels.

All data is then securely transmitted in real-time to an Auckland City computer where it can be analysed by a noise enforcement officer.

The data can also be viewed, in real-time, by the speedway's promoter, helping it to identify when noise levels are high and respond accordingly.

The device can also record the actual noise, as a digital audio file (MP3), which can be referred to later to help determine what caused the noise.

''This state of the art tool represents a significant step forward in addressing concerns about speedway noise in the area. This new technology will make monitoring easier, and more accurate. It is like having a noise specialist on site 24-seven,'' says Auckland City Environment’s Group Manager, Barry Smedts.

The Western Springs speedway has been an integral part of Auckland for 76 years. The stadium hosts a maximum of three practice sessions, 20 races, and six concerts each year.

The first speedway practice for this season started on 16 October 2004.

ENDS

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