Wairoa District Council is investigating a second dog attack involving a man walking in a residential area of North Clyde on Sunday night – despite increased patrols from Council staff targeting roaming dogs.

It’s understood the man received numerous dog bites to his legs and torso and was hospitalised.

This is the second dog attack in the Wairoa township in a week, with a local woman being hospitalised after being viciously attacked by two dogs which were surrendered to the Council by the owner and later euthanised.

Mayor Craig Little said it is extremely disappointing that another attack has happened. “I feel so sorry for the victims and whānau affected. The Council is working with the Police and reviewing CCTV footage from the area to try to identify the dog involved.

“Our entire community needs to work together to keep our streets safe. Councils have a responsibility for administering, implementing and enforcing Dog Control legislation, but it is dog owners who are responsible for their dogs’ behaviour and for keeping them secure and under control.

“I urge anyone who sees a wandering dog, or has concerns about whether dogs are securely contained, to please contact the Council immediately. We need to work together in partnership to try and prevent further attacks. We cannot be complacent and allow irresponsible dog ownership to become normalised.

“I know our Council staff will continue to work hard to support our community, but change has got to start by dog owners being responsible and fulfilling the requirements of the Dog Control Act.”

For any dog-related calls, please call the Council on 06 838 7309.

2 July 2025

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