Parāoa Brewing Appeals Tavern Licence Decision Amid Noise Dispute

Parāoa Brewing Co has announced its intention to appeal a decision made by the District Licensing Committee regarding the renewal of its tavern licence. The venue, located in Whangaparāoa, will continue operations at least until December 2024, with hopes of extending that period if a stay is granted. Owner Zenic Gujarathi expressed his commitment to sustaining live music on the Coast, although he now faces uncertainty about the venue’s future.

The establishment has gained popularity since its opening, employing 11 staff members and hosting various events, including live music performances, charity fundraisers, and community gatherings. Despite its success, the venue has encountered noise complaints from a couple living nearby, which have led to formal objections and enforcement actions.

Gujarathi has engaged with the complainants, stating that he met them “once or twice” and made himself available via phone and text during events to address any concerns regarding music volumes. He emphasized, “We want to be good neighbours and I am trying to do the right thing.” To mitigate noise issues, Parāoa Brewing has implemented several measures, including hiring sound specialists, capping audio equipment at 80 decibels, and gradually adding soundproofing to the venue.

Noise Complaints and Compliance Efforts

Records from the local council indicate that since 2024, Parāoa Brewing has been subject to multiple Excessive Noise Directions and two infringement notices. In March 2024, the venue was fined $500 for failing to comply with a noise direction. This was followed by a $750 fine in September 2024 after a council meter recorded noise levels of 65 dB outside a residence after 22:00 on a Sunday. The permitted noise level for business interfaces at night is 45 dB.

While the complainants reported that weekend music has caused them “sleepless nights,” they have lived in their home for over three decades, well before the establishment opened. They invested $8,000 in soundproofing their property and have continued their objection due to concerns about future compliance once the abatement notice expires.

Interestingly, many other complaints against the venue were not upheld. Noise monitoring conducted by a licensing inspector in March 2025 suggested levels “often about 80 dB” during live performances, although measurements were taken using a smartphone app that is not certified for legal enforcement.

At a meeting held in January with the complainants, there seemed to be a willingness to compromise. However, they later pursued a formal objection. The licensing inspector proposed implementing a 22:00 noise restriction as a possible solution to the ongoing concerns.

The objectors made it clear they did not wish to see the venue shut down. They stated, “If the liquor licence is to be renewed, we would like the relevant authorities to take remedial actions to solve the above concerns, so we could have a reasonably peaceful life here in Whangaparāoa.”

Understanding Noise Levels

Noise is measured in decibels (dB), with the scale being logarithmic. A 10 dB increase is perceived as roughly twice as loud to the human ear. For context, 45 dB approximates sounds like a quiet library or gentle rainfall, while 65 dB is comparable to normal conversation or background chatter in a café. In contrast, sounds at 80 dB are similar to busy traffic or a vacuum cleaner.

The ongoing appeal and the surrounding noise disputes highlight the delicate balance between community enjoyment and residential peace. As Parāoa Brewing Co navigates these challenges, its future remains uncertain but pivotal in the vibrant cultural landscape of Whangaparāoa.