Auckland dog owners face new restrictions under council’s proposed new rules

Auckland Council is considering increasing restrictions on taking dogs to parks.

The council has recommended more of Auckland's 14 regional parks and 64 local parks become completely dog-free, as well as creating new off-leash areas.

The proposed changes were based on recent feedback and animal management complaints and callouts, indicating people were not following dog access rules.

“In a preliminary survey in March 2024, Aucklanders told us that owners not picking up after their dog, dogs wandering off-leash in on-leash areas, and packs of dogs taking up pathways were of concern to them.”

The council also suggested a maximum of six dogs be walked together, with only three being allowed off-leash at a time.

“The council's data shows that multiple dogs being walked together appears to be an emerging issue for Aucklanders, so a limit on the number of dogs that can be walked at the same time is also being proposed.”

It said existing rules around dangerous dogs needing to be neutered if they move to the region, exemptions for working dogs and dogs in vehicles, and dog access rules for council car parks and camping grounds should also be made clearer.

Regulatory and Safety Committee chair Councillor Josephine Bartley said people should feel safe visiting public spaces.

“The changes being put forward aim to keep a good mix of dog-friendly and dog-free spaces so there are places for dogs, and anyone who is not a dog person, to enjoy. This will also help to protect vulnerable wildlife, like endangered shorebirds nesting on our beaches, and kauri in specific places.”

She said the council aimed to respond to concerns fairly and reasonably without imposing unnecessary restrictions.

“This is a topic that people are passionate about – I know as well as anyone that we want the best for our beloved pets.

“Testing these changes with Aucklanders is key to making sure we have it right. If this is important to you, I strongly encourage you to have your say online, or at one of the many engagement events being held across the region.”

People had until 11.59pm on Sunday, 23 February to give feedback on the proposed changes to dog access rules at parks and beaches across the region.

The council would make a final decision in mid-2025 after feedback had been reviewed by local boards.

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