New Plymouth Temporarily Bans Dogs from Two Beaches for Bird Nesting

New Plymouth District Council (NPDC) has introduced temporary dog prohibitions across two coastal areas in the district to protect at-risk native shorebirds during their spring nesting season.

Effective from 28 September 2026 until 26 November 2026, dogs are strictly prohibited from Waiwhakaiho, east of the river mouth, and from the section of Kaihihi Beach situated west of the Kaihihi stream near Ōkato. The council noted that these restrictions might be renewed beyond 26 November if necessary.

The temporary exclusions were enacted under Policy 12 of the council's Dog Control Bylaw 2022. The measures are designed to provide uninterrupted space for northern New Zealand dotterels (*tūturiwhatu*) and variable oystercatchers (*tōrea pango*) to lay eggs and rear their young. Both birds are at risk from disturbance and predators, and the Department of Conservation classes them as recovering species.

For local dog owners and visitors in the Taranaki region, this seasonal measure means finding alternative exercise locations while the temporary exclusions remain active. Dog owners must keep pets entirely clear of the protected coastal sections at Waiwhakaiho and Kaihihi Beach. Taking a dog into the prohibited areas constitutes a breach of local dog bylaws and may result in council infringement notices.

When visiting other coastal areas where dog access remains permitted, owners should keep dogs under active control and check seasonal signage, as spring shorebird nesting occurs across many New Zealand beaches. To ensure safe outings, owners can review suitable lead options in our guide to dog leads, harnesses and collars in NZ and check regional access rules in our overview of pet-friendly beaches in NZ. Local bylaw requirements vary across district councils, and owners should verify area-specific maps directly with their local authority.

Sources

• https://www.npdc.govt.nz/services/dogs-and-animals/walking-your-dog/