Nicky Wagner
National Party MP

21 February 2007

Noisy vehicle amendments not good enough

Proposed amendments to the vehicle equipment rule will not bring New Zealand's noisy vehicle standards up to scratch, says National Party Associate Environment Spokeswoman Nicky Wagner.

"The noise problem has been steadily getting worse throughout Labour's term.

"This is a basic, environmental issue which the Labour Government just can't get its head around.

"Under the proposed new rules, the acceptable noise level for new cars would drop from 95 to 90 decibels.

"This is a standard which has been in place in Australia since 1983, and here we are still waiting. And we will be waiting until 2010.

"What's more, the Transport Safety Minister is still bending the rules by allowing a further three decibels leeway.

"All this means that in 2010, despite us adopting the Australian standard, our vehicles will still be allowed to be 30% noisier than their Australian counterparts.

"In terms of noise standards we will still be greater polluters than most of the world included Europe and Australia.

"Despite Helen Clark's promise of 'bold action', when it comes to controlling noisy vehicles, New Zealand is lagging behind."

ENDS

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