Nicky Wagner
National Party MP
21 September 2006

Labour plan to reign in noisy vehicles failing

National MP Nicky Wagner says Labour’s plans to test excessively noisy vehicle exhausts have failed miserably despite much hype.

Transport Safety Minister Harry Duynhoven introduced an objective noise test just over two months ago, and stated: ‘We are sending the clear message that we are not going to put up with that behaviour anymore.’

“I had a Member’s Bill which called for an objective noise test at warrant time. Mr Duynhoven’s test did not go far enough - because it is only for imports and vehicles referred by police,” says Mrs Wagner.

“So far the Duynhoven testing regime, which has cost $125,000 to set up, has been a failure.

“Most certifiers have done no tests at all, and many consider it a waste of time.”

A check of certifiers on Tuesday revealed a grand total of just 15 tests have been done across most of the country. There have been three done in North Auckland, none in South Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, and Fielding, one in Wellington, and 11 in Christchurch. Figures were not available for Dunedin.

“This shows Mr Duynhoven’s testing regime has so far proved a flop,” says Mrs Wagner.

“Labour’s steps to reign-in boy racers have been far too feeble and cautious, and it’s time for real action.

“The only way to stop excessively noisy vehicles is by introducing objective, standardised and regular tests in WOF testing stations.”

ENDS

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