Wellington Releases 2025/26 Annual Dog Control Report

Wellington City Council has released its Annual Dog Control Report for the 2025/2026 registration year, fulfilling its statutory reporting obligations under Section 10A of the Dog Control Act 1996.

The annual review outlines municipal enforcement, registration figures, shelter operations, and community education across the capital between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026.

Key Operational Findings

• Registration Demographics: Total registered dogs in Wellington City remained stable at 13,497 (compared to 13,498 in 2024/25). Approximately 25.4% of registered dog owners currently hold Accredited Dog Owner (ADO) status, which gives a discounted registration rate to owners who meet the council's criteria. Around 100 people attended the four ADO training courses run between August 2025 and May 2026.
• Proactive Patrols and Enforcement: Animal Control Officers logged 881 hours of proactive patrols, nearly doubling the 467 hours recorded the previous year. Patrols target problem areas, high-use public spaces and wildlife-sensitive areas, where the council says an infringement notice is issued for every observed breach. It issued 217 infringement notices over the year.
• Incident Trends: Reports of dog attacks on other animals decreased from 116 to 92. Conversely, reported attacks on people increased from 70 to 82. Reports of dogs attacking penguins during the breeding season also fell, which the council attributes to increased education and enforcement alongside its Urban Ecology team and partner agencies.
• Shelter and Rehoming: Security upgrades were completed at the Moa Point Animal Shelter, including higher boundary fencing. Animal Services successfully rehomed 15 dogs directly, with an additional 9 dogs rehomed through partner rescue organisations.
• National Legislative Review: The report notes that the Department of Internal Affairs is actively reviewing the Dog Control Act 1996, and has sought Wellington City Council's feedback. The council expects changes to give Animal Control Officers improved enforcement tools.

What This Means for Dog Owners

The report names roaming dogs, inadequate confinement and dogs exercised off lead where a leash is required as contributing factors in attacks. With patrol hours nearly doubled and a stated policy of ticketing every observed breach in wildlife-sensitive areas, Wellington owners should check the lead rules for the parks and beaches they use before letting a dog off.

For council registration rules and lead requirements, consult our guide to dog registration in NZ and our guide to dog leads, harnesses and collars in NZ.

Sources

• https://wellington.govt.nz/dogs-and-other-animals/dogs/policies-bylaws-and-dog-control-reports/dog-control-reports
• https://wellington.govt.nz/-/media/dogs-and-other-animals/dogs/files/reports/annual-dog-control-report-2025-2026.pdf