Aotearoa New Zealand is renowned for its scenic coastlines and protected wildlife. But coastal species such as little blue penguins/kororā and yellow-eyed penguins/hoiho are in decline. Here’s how you and your dog can help.
Become a wildlife wise dog owner to keep our wildlife and your dog safe on the beach.
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Get wildlife wise to protect coastal species
Our beaches are home to marine mammals and sea birds. They include New Zealand fur seals/kekeno, little blue penguins/kororā red-billed gulls/tarāpunga and many more. They're also a great place for humans and dogs alike to get out and enjoy nature.
But dogs can pose great risks to native wildlife and are a primary threat for seal and sea lion pups. From disturbance to injury and even death, dogs can impact many species in a range of different ways.
They have been known to disturb sunbathing seals and frighten penguins from returning to their nests. This is harmful to not only coastal wildlife, but our dogs as well.
Our dogs on beaches guidelines cover the key things to know when going to a beach with your dog.
About Lead the Way
Lead the Way is a DOC-led initiative that focuses on public engagement to minimise the impact of dogs on coastal wildlife.
We want dog owners to feel empowered and know how to act to protect wildlife.
This reduces pressure on vulnerable coastal wildlife. Limiting dog interactions with wildlife means we reduce some of the threats to them.