The Dog Lovers of Monte Cecilia Incorporated Society (DLMC) is pleased to announce that the High Court has made an interim order preserving off-leash dog access to the bowl area at Monte Cecilia Park until DLMC’s application for judicial review is determined.

The High Court’s order follows Auckland Council’s agreement that it is appropriate to pause the Local Board’s decision to remove off-leash access to the bowl area while the matter is before the Court.

DLMC welcomes the Council’s pragmatic and sensible approach in this instance and looks forward to progressing toward a full hearing of its substantive judicial review in due course.

A Movement Gaining Momentum

DLMC’s campaign continues to build strength with both legal traction and growing public support. The Incorporated Society now has over [insert number] members, with new signups daily.

The campaign is also gaining broader media attention, including radio interviews and increased local coverage — reflecting the community’s strong engagement and the wider public relevance of the issue.

New Website Launch: A Central Hub for Action

The movement has reached a new milestone with the launch of DLMC’s official website: www.dogsofmonte.org

The site houses background on the dispute, fundraising information, and a membership sign-up portal. It has quickly become the central hub for supporters, the public, and media to stay informed and take action.

How to Support the Campaign

Industry Coffee Fundraiser

Local roaster Industry Coffee has partnered with DLMC to offer freshly roasted coffee beans, grounds, and hot chocolate through a dedicated fundraiser page. Every purchase supports court costs and legal expenses. Visit: industrycoffee.co.nz/product-category/dlomc

Background: About the Dispute

In 2025, Auckland Council proposed a range of dog access changes across 80 local and regional parks. At Monte Cecilia Park in Hillsborough, a popular off-leash area known as “the bowl” was set to become on-leash only — despite 88% of public submissions opposing the change, over 1,000 petition signatures, and advice from Council officers recommending that no changes be made to Monte Cecilia Park.

The Dog Lovers of Monte Cecilia Incorporated Society, representing over 1,300 local dog owners and supporters, filed a judicial review in the High Court, alleging that the Puketāpapa Local Board’s decision was made without sufficient evidence and failed to follow fair and lawful process.

The High Court’s interim order preserves off-leash access in the bowl until the full case is heard.

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