DOC says ‘don’t bring the dog’

DOC Tongariro Supervisor Stuart Smith shows off one of the new signs, while Clodagh Costello’s pooch Mac looks on from the car, unimpressed. Photo / Department of Conservation

Tongariro Department of Conservation rangers in Ohakune have come up with a lighthearted way to educate their furry friends on the rules for Tongariro National Park.

Dogs (or other pets) are not allowed in Tongariro National Park, not even inside cars, to protect its fragile ecosystems and cultural heritage for which it has Dual World Heritage status.

New signs have been placed at three main entrances to the park to ensure all visitors know the rules.

Community Ranger Clodagh Costello says the team and their pooches had a bit of fun showing off the new ‘no dog’ signs just outside the Ohakune entrance to the national park.

“Our dogs were a little excited, I’m not sure they got the message to be honest! But it’s us owners who need to take responsibility.

“In Aotearoa, our environment is part of our identity, and dogs are part of how we connect with nature – but there’s a right time and place, and a national park isn’t one of them.”

Any dog can make a mistake and attack wildlife like the iconic brown kiwi present in Tongariro National Park. Even a dog standing around doing nothing can change the behaviour of wildlife.

Clodagh says there are many places to legally take dogs into nature, and the DOC website is a good place to check for options on Public Conservation Land.

“It’s important we have some places where wildlife can just be wild, without the influence of our pets.”

Disturbing or harming absolutely protected wildlife, including brown kiwi and whio, is an offence under the Wildlife Act 1953. Those in control of a dog which disturbs, or harms wildlife could be liable for an infringement fine of up to $800.

“With these signs we’re sending a clear message. Pleading ignorance is not an option for dog owners,” says Clodagh.

DOC’s Whakapapa and Ohakune offices sit within the boundaries of Tongariro National Park, so staff won’t be getting a ‘bring your dog to work’ day any time soon.