Green light for dog registrations in the Western Bay
Western Bay of Plenty District Council is encouraging dog owners to make sure their four-legged friends are “seen in green” as the new registration year gets underway.
This year’s green tags replace last year’s red tags – with dog registrations now open for the 2026/27 year.
Dog owners can register their kuri either online, or in person at Council’s Barkes Corner office, or at their local library and service centre.
Fees and charges are reviewed each year as part of Council’s Annual Plan process to ensure they remain fair and reflect the cost of providing services.
This year the standard registration fee for desexed dogs has increased from $110 to $121, while the fee for entire dogs has increased from $140 to $154.
The increased charges will help cover the rising cost of dog control services, while continuing to support responsible dog ownership.
"We know many households are feeling cost pressures, and we have worked to keep increases as low as possible, while still reflecting the rising cost of delivering animal services,” says Alison Curtis, Western Bay of Plenty District Council General Manager Regulatory Services.
Dog registration fees help fund required animal control services across the district, as well as a range of facilities and community initiatives that support responsible dog ownership and public safety. This includes operating dog shelters in Te Puke and Katikati, providing dog exercise areas, and installing signage and waste bag dispensers.
Fees also support the Animal Services team in responding to complaints, investigating incidents, reuniting lost dogs with their owners, rehoming unclaimed dogs, providing education and advice, and enforcing dog control rules. In addition, they help fund community events such as Doggy Day Out and the Wander Dogs walking series.
“While we recognise that dog owners have varying levels of demand for these services, registration helps ensure we can continue delivering essential animal management services across the District,” says Alison.
Dog registration fees are due by 1 July 2026. All dogs are legally required to be registered before they are three months of age, and each dog must be registered at the address where they spend most of their time.
New dog owners, or those not previously registered with Western Bay of Plenty District Council, can create an account online.
Further information on fees and how they apply to different dogs is available on Council’s website.
For any queries, please contact Council’s customer services team on 0800 926 732 or email info@westernbay.govt.nz.
