Dog and animal management

So many of us love our pooches; it's important to remember there are responsibilities to dog and animal ownership, too. We've got everything you need to know, from exercise areas to reporting concerns, and information on lost and impounded animals.

If you are a dog owner in Kāpiti, subscribe to our occasional newsletter. We email this group only when there is important information to share.

Read our COVID-19 page for the latest information.

Dog registration

Owning a dog is a pleasure and a privilege. It also takes care and commitment and comes with many responsibilities, such as the training, housing, feeding and exercising of your pooch.

Exercise areas

The Kāpiti Coast has some fantastic off-leash areas where dogs can run and play freely. These areas can change from summer to winter, so please make sure you’re aware of the seasonal rules before visiting. 

Animal management fees

Fees are used to promote responsible dog ownership in the district and safety around dogs, manage risks arising from wandering or troublesome dogs, provide and maintain the district pound/shelter, and meet our statutory obligations.

Reporting dog concerns

Our Animal Management team has experience working with dogs of all breeds, sizes, and behaviours. Our team members are trained and skilled in responding to the varied types of situations that they are called upon to handle.

Lost and impounded animals

Public spaces animal control officers have the right to seize and impound any wandering or unregistered dogs, or if a dog is making noise that's causing distress. Check what to do if you find or lose a dog.

Adoption

We occasionally have dogs that can be adopted.  If you are interested in providing these dogs with their forever home, complete the expression of interest form.