The city’s youngest creatives are taking centre stage in Hutt City Council’s 2025 dog registration campaign, with their artwork set to feature across the city.

Earlier this year, Council’s Animal Services team ran a drawing and colouring competition inviting local tamariki to showcase their artistic take on man’s best friend. Entries flooded in from across Lower Hutt.

A selection of the most eye-catching and heartwarming pieces now appears on signage, posters, email headers and Council’s social media.

For Ava,14, seeing their artwork of Pipi on a local signboard was a bigger thrill than the prize pack they received for being one of the top four winners.

"Mum came home and told me to hop in the car - I didn’t know where on earth we were going. She pulled up next to the Naenae signboard and just said, ‘Ta da!’ It was such a cool surprise."

Council’s Animal Services Manager Duncan Pratt says the campaign has been a hit.

"We’ve had dog owners and sign printers telling us how much they’ve enjoyed these artworks. It’s a simple way to spread some smiles while encouraging responsible pet ownership."

More of the children's dog-themed masterpieces will roll out in the coming weeks, just in time for the 2025 dog registration period.

Invoices will be sent out from 9 June. Dog owners are encouraged to take advantage of the discounted registration fee by paying in full before 31 July.

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