February 19, 2003

North Shore City Council has announced its support for a review of the Government's 1996 Dog Control Act, in light of recent attacks throughout the country.

In particular, the council wants closer examination of the Act's sections relating to dangerous dogs, seizure of dogs, dogs that challenge, and the fines that are imposed by the current legislation.

Chairperson of North Shore City's strategy and finance committee, Tony Holman, says any changes to the council's own Dog Control Bylaw would be considered following any revision of the Dog Control Act by Parliament.

"The Government has recognised that dog control is a matter of major public concern at the moment, and sought feedback about the current legislation from local authorities," says Councillor Holman.

"Our resolution yesterday emphasises our particular concern about the law relating to dangerous breeds. On the whole, dogs and their owners in North Shore City are well behaved, and we need to be careful that any eventual changes to the Act or our own bylaws do not penalise the responsible dog owners, but also protect the public at large."

North Shore City's current Dog Control rules are as follows:

Dogs are not allowed on marked playing fields, in children's playgrounds, or wildlife parks at any time, or on beaches and foreshores during summer (Labour Weekend to end of Daylight Savings) between 9am - 7pm. Dogs can be exercised off their leash in all other council parks and reserves provided they do not create a nuisance. In all other public places dogs must be kept on a leash.

(ends)

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