Uncontrolled dogs still a problem for kiwi
Date: 20 June 2008
Six separate incidents of dogs wandering in the Whangarei Kiwi Sanctuary in the last month have disappointed and worried Department of Conservation (DOC) staff from the Whangarei Area Office.
The incidents occurred in the Riponui, Reotahi and McKenzie Bay areas. Two dogs were wandering for more than a week in the sanctuary near Riponui and multiple reports of wandering dogs in Reotahi and McKenzie Bay are a direct threat to a kiwi population that members of the local community and DOC are trying to re-establish.
DOC Kiwi Ranger, Megan Henderson, said, "the blatant disregard for kiwi survival that is shown by the same few dog owners who continue to let their dogs roam does not have to be tolerated by the rest of the community who appreciate having protected native species in their backyard".
"People do not have the right to let their dog wander and there are consequences for such actions", said Henderson. Under Section 59 of the Dog Control Act 1996 any dog that is at large and is an immediate disturbance or threat to any protected wildlife can be seized or destroyed by the occupier of the land or dog control officer.
Clea Gardiner, Programme Manager for the Whangarei Kiwi Sanctuary, says recent confirmed reports of at least one pair of kiwi in the Reotahi-Mt Aubury Reserve that have bred for the last two seasons is a reflection of the good work that the community is doing to help protect kiwi but reminds everyone that these years of hard work can be undone in seconds due to a few irresponsible dog owners.
Dogs are the biggest threat to kiwi survival in Northland. If the kiwi population is to survive in the Whangarei area the commitment of the entire community is required to keep dogs under control. If you see a wandering dog call Environment Northland immediately on 0800 10 58 90 (24 hours).