ROTORUA 27.10.09: Rotorua District Council is encouraging local dog owners to make the most of off-lead dog walking tracks on Long Mile Rd, alongside The Redwoods.

While dogs on leads are permitted in The Redwoods, the land opposite has been made available to the public by Scion allowing dogs to be exercised off-lead as long as they are controlled by their owners.

Scion uses the area for research work, and refers to it as the Nursery Archives.

Redwoods Gift Shop & Visitor Centre manager, Julianne Wilkinson, says Scion’s generous contribution to the community means a great open space is available for dog owners to exercise and socialise their pets.

She says the council is installing ‘doggy doo bins’ this month at main access points to the area’s most popular tracks.

“A lot of people bring their dogs to the forest but they’re restricted in The Redwoods as the dogs must be on leads at all times. However Scion’s Nursery Archives across the road offer an alternative forest area for more dog activity to take place.”

Local dog owner, Barbara Cook, has been taking her two dogs to the off-lead area almost every day for the past two years. She says the Nursery Archives allow them “to be dogs”, and they have grown into well adjusted, sociable animals.

“Rotorua dog owners are extremely lucky that Scion allows us to socialise our pets in an off-lead area for dog owners who are willing to behave in a responsible manner.

“Having the ‘doggy doo bins’ at entry and exit gates will encourage respect of the Scion property that is generously made available for our use.”

Doggy doo bags are available free at Rotorua District Council’s Civic Centre in the city and at The Redwoods Gift Shop & Visitor Centre.

ENDS

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