Temporary restrictions for the protection of wildlife

Our Council has been working with the Department of Conservation (DOC) to have temporary dog restrictions in place for parts of beaches and tracks, not already included in our Dog Control Bylaw, from time to time for the protection of native wildlife.

"Most of the sites identified are where one or more dotterel pairs are known to nest at the over the breeding season from the beginning of October to the end of March and only require restrictions while the birds are nesting," says Michael Jones our Acting Community Environment Manager.

The restrictions are a tool to aid the protection of vulnerable species such as kiwi, fern bird, variable oyster catchers, red billed gulls, white fronted terns, Caspian terns, reef heron, banded dotterel, banded rail, and bar-tailed godwit and NZ dotterel.

Signs will be in place at the additional restricted areas and the restriction will be in place until the signs are removed.

Restricted - Areas within 100m of a prohibited area dogs are to be 'on leash' as outlined by the signs. This will make sure dogs can access the beach without causing distress or risk to protected wildlife.

Prohibited - Wildlife areas that are fenced are prohibited to dogs as outlined by the accompanying signs. In kiwi nesting areas, signs will be placed along the track outlining the restriction.

"We don't believe the new temporary restrictions will greatly impact people wanting to exercise their dogs on beaches," says Mr Jones. "Most residents and regular visitors to the district are familiar with the fenced dotterel areas and many dog owners work with us to keep these birds safe during their nesting times."

Our Council compliance officers will support DOC with the monitoring of the restrictions.

To find out where you can exercise your dog and to read the Dog Control Bylaw go to our websitewww.tcdc.govt.nz/dogrules

Marine Mammals

A restriction may also come into place when injured or resting marine mammals come to shore. If you come across resting or injured wildlife, give them a wide berth and call the DOC hotline (0800 DOCHOT).

What to do if you come across a marine mammal:

• Leave it alone, it may just be resting and won't appreciate the attention. They move a lot faster than they look like they can!

• If a marine mammal is harassing people or animals call DOC on the above number

• If people are harassing the marine mammal call 111 and ask for the police

• If dogs are harassing marine mammals call our Council on 07 868 0200

© Scoop Media