Crackdown On Unregistered Auckland Dogs – Pay Fine Or Face Court

Friday, 11 April 2025, 8:41 pm
Article: Torika Tokalau - Local Democracy Reporter

Auckland dog owners who continue to ignore reminders to register their pets will now face infringement fines, or go to court.

The move comes as Auckland Council looks to promote responsible dog ownership in the region.

Final infringement notices have been issued, and those who do not pay within the next 28 days will have their fines transferred to the court, council said.

Regulatory and Safety Committee chair Josephine Bartley said there is a link between unregistered dogs and the issue of roaming dogs and attacks on people and other animals.

“We are cracking down on those dog owners who don’t take responsibility for their pets by registering them,” Bartley said in a statement.

She said it was part of the focus from council's Animal Management team who were working hard to curb roaming dogs and keep Aucklanders safe.

“Registrations help pay for the animal management services Auckland Council provide to get dogs off the streets, the prosecution of dog owners whose dogs have injured others, and the euthanising of these dogs.”

Licensing and Compliance general manager Robert Irvine said council has provided ample opportunities for dog owners to comply.

However, it was time for those who continued to ignore their obligations, to face the consequences, he said.

“The time for leniency has passed – it’s now a matter of fairness to those who do the right thing," Irvine said.

The move marks the second phase of council’s bulk infringement campaign.

The initial round of infringement notices were issued 28 days ago, prompting many dog owners to settle their fines.

A follow-up reminder letter was sent out last Friday (April 4) to those who were yet to pay.

Council said these individuals now had a final 28 days to make payment, before their debt was handed over to the court system for enforcement.

Council said the infringement campaign was effective in prompting compliance, while also helping ensure they had the most up to date information for dogs and dog owners.

“Auckland Council remains firm on ensuring compliance with dog registration requirements.

"Those who continue to disregard their obligations should be prepared for additional penalties."

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