Wairoa District Council is driving a good dog ownership campaign in line with the government’s review of the Dog Control Act.

The Government crackdown follows recent horrific dog attacks throughout the country and will focus on unregistered and roaming dogs.

Wairoa Mayor Craig Little says Wairoa has had some horrific dog attacks, and the Council is encouraged that the Government has acknowledged the message from local Councils that the Dog Control Act is outdated and is preventing Councils from doing their jobs effectively, putting unnecessary strain on resources and the wider system. “The Government’s response is about backing councils to keep their communities safe and holding irresponsible dog owners responsible for their animals.”

Mayor Little described owning a dog as a privilege – not a right – and noted that there are responsibilities that come with dog ownership. “New Zealand law states your dog must be registered, microchipped, and kept under control at all times. We need dog owners to get the basics right, because we have all seen the dreadful outcomes caused by uncontrolled dogs.”

Mayor Little said that central and local government agree that dog owners must take responsibility and keep their animals under control, and that the Dog Control Act empowers councils to keep communities safe. 

Due to community complaints, Council staff, supported by Police, recently executed search warrants at five local properties, resulting in the impoundment of 12 unregistered dogs.

Council staff had previously visited these properties and advised the dog owners that they needed to be compliant. As a result of the visits, most of the identified dogs have now been registered, and Council staff have had discussions with the owners around responsible dog ownership.

Mayor Little said it is encouraging that the dog owners involved recognise the level of responsibility they need to demonstrate. “It’s always a shame when we have to resort to a court-issued search warrant, but it is good to have these dogs registered and identified in the dog registration system.

“Most dog owners abide by the rules and do the right thing. Unfortunately, it is the few who cause the most problems, and this is where our focus will be.

“We urge our community to support the Council to help keep our communities safe as we work to limit the number of unregistered and roaming dogs.

A reminder, the new dog registration season is effective from July 1, and dog owners need to be ready to re-register or register their dogs.

For more information on how to be a responsible dog owner, head to the Wairoa District Council website www.wairoadistrictcouncil.co.nz or ring the Council on 06 838 7309 and talk to one of the team members.

1 April 2026

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