Regulations

Dog Control Act 1996

The Dog Control Act 1996 and all subsequent amendments demonstrate central government's commitment to maintaining a balance between people being responsible dog owners and the safety of the general community from dogs.

• Dog Control Act 1996 - links to New Zealand Legislation website
• Internal Affairs Control of Dogs Annual Report 2022/23 (PDF, 244KB)

Policies

Dog Policy and Bylaw

The Policy and Bylaw provides rules, guidelines and procedures for the control of dogs in public places and supports responsible dog ownership by allowing owners to exercise their dogs off-leash in most reserves and beaches. Leash requirements, exercise areas and prohibited areas, as well as enforcement for irresponsible owners are also covered.

• Whakatāne District Council Dog Policy - (PDF, 346 KB)
• Dog Control Bylaw - (PDF, 681 KB)
• Dog Control Maps