Marlborough Sounds Resource Management Plan 21 August 2008 Description of Areas Affected by Existing Noise Levels The areas affected by noise from 24 hour activities at Picton lie predominantly to the south, west and north of the main Port facilities and at Havelock to the west and east. The Picton township lies to the south and has its own noise associated with road traffic, commercial activities, etc. and is relatively unaffected by noise from port activities. The primary area of existing noise impact at Picton is along the western hillsides which are zoned rural immediately to the west of the port, and overlooking it. This area includes all land to the west of the Port both below and above Queen Charlotte Drive. At Havelock the primary area of existing noise impact is to the west of the port. Existing Noise Sources The areas described above receive sounds from arrival and departure, berthing, cargo loading and unloading (and includes at Picton Cook Strait ferries) and other vessels operating at the ports. The noise sources at Picton include stationary, and mobile sources associated with road transport and rail, and loading activities taking place within the port including noise from light and heavy vehicle traffic within the port areas (excluding noise from vehicles on public roads). Existing Noise Levels Measurements undertaken during both daytime and night-time during 2005 and 2006 indicate L levels between 55 and 66 dBA at all assessment points above 10 Queen Charlotte Drive and 50 dBA at Havelock. Noise levels at assessment points representative of existing dwellings in the area above Queen Charlotte Drive have been measured at between L 55 dBA and 60 dBA at times of port activity over 10 24 hour periods during 2005 and 2006. Some variability in sound levels occurs due to variations in port activity throughout the day. 22.2 Issue Adverse effects of noise on community health, including environmental and amenity values, due to disturbance, disruption or interference. 22.2