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Noise

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Airport noise at Nelson

A busy airport is a sign of a vibrant, connected region. It also means you’ll sometimes hear airport noise. Our job is to maintain a high-functioning operational airport, keep noise as low as practicably possible, deal with issues quickly, and be upfront about what’s happening and why. 

Make a noise complaintNelson Airport Noise Environment Advisory Committee
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Quick facts

  • Most noise comes from: aircraft take-off/landing, pilot training, and essential aircraft maintenance checks.
  • Some flights are essential: rescue and medical flights operate at all hours.
  • We actively manage noise: clear rules, regular monitoring, independent audits, and a community forum.
  • You can talk to us: we investigate every concern and share what we find. 

What you might hear — and why

How we manage noise

Jargon buster

Report a concern

  1. Tell us what happened using the form below - date/time, where you were, what you heard (a quick description helps).
  2. We investigate — we match your report with flight/maintenance data and any measurements.
  3. We follow up — we’ll explain what we found and any actions taken.
  4. We report - any breaches of noise limits are reported to the Nelson City Council
  5. We learn — concerns are reviewed with operators and included in our regular reporting and audits. 

If you would prefer to lodge a complaint anonymously, you may do so directly to the Nelson City Council compliance team. Please email enquiry@ncc.govt.nz with the subject line "Airport Noise".