Dogs
on Aotea

Aotea/Great Barrier Island is home to rare and endangered species, some of which are disturbed and/or predated by dogs. As a dog owner living on or visiting Aotea you have an extra responsibility to ensure your dog is well cared for and doesn’t cause harm to the islands wildlife. This page offers practical tips and guidance to help you enjoy owning or bringing a dog to Aotea while reducing harm to ground‑nesting birds, lizards, and other taonga species.

For more guidance:

This year, the Aotea Local Board has funded additional dog-training opportunities for pet dog owners on Aotea, supporting responsible dog ownership and helping to protect our treasured native wildlife. The programme will offer practical guidance to help owners strengthen recall, manage their dogs safely around wildlife, and enjoy the island’s beaches, tracks, and public spaces with confidence.

As part of the initiative, owners can complete the online quiz to receive a $15 discount on a Lead the Way colour-coded leash!*

The colour system provides a simple, visible way to communicate a dog’s needs, such as whether it is friendly, requires space, or is vulnerable, this helps dog owners prevent unwanted interactions and create safer, more enjoyable experiences for dogs, wildlife, and the wider community.

Learn more about the Lead the Way initiative, and then take the quiz!

Take the Quiz here!

The Colour Coded Lead System

Colour coded leads help others understand your dog's needs and reduce stress for everyone on shared beaches and tracks. They also help reduce risky interactions for both wildlife and other dogs.

*Discounts are limited to the first 100 people who take the quiz.

Where can I walk my dog? Listed Rules

  • Know the designated dog exercise areas and follow local rules.

  • Discourage your dog from chasing birds on beaches, reserves, parks, or tracks.

  • Join a puppy or dog training group to learn effective control techniques.

  • Ensure your dog wears a collar with identification tags.

  • Provide appropriate shelter and a balanced diet.

  • Keep your dog on a leash in coastal areas where native birds are nesting.

  • Auckland Council and DOC offer free Bird Aversion Training courses for dogs. Contact Auckland Council or DOC for more information (details below).

If you see a wandering dog or inappropriate behaviour (such as chasing protected shorebirds), please contact:

Auckland Council Aotea Great Barrier Service Centre: 09 4290 258

or DOC: 09 4290 044

A tan dog with white paws and chest lying on sandy beach with blue ocean and partly cloudy sky in the background.