There have been 68 reports of dog attacks in the Hauraki District over the past year, according to a report presented at the council’s September 25 meeting.
The report, outlining the council’s dog control activities over the 2023-24 year, showed a decrease in barking dog complaints, down to 113 from last year’s 141. However, the number of reported dog attacks – 68 – had risen significantly from last year’s figure of 37. Dog attacks on people accounted for 18 of those reports, with the others involving dogs attacking other animals.
Reports of lost and roaming dogs also increased from 269 to 328.
There are currently 4434 registered dogs in the Hauraki District. Fourteen of those are classified as dangerous by the council, and 102 as menacing.
Meanwhile, the meeting also saw the council commit to beautifying its public spaces, with the adoption of its Placemaking Plans for Kerepēhi, Ngatea and Paeroa.
The plans, funded by a Better Off funding package from the government, used feedback from Hauraki iwi and public workshops held in February to develop a series of proposed projects in the regional centres.
In Kerepēhi, the plans outlined a public playground upgrade, walking and cycling links to the nearby Piako River, and a wharf upgrade as priorities.
In Ngatea, projects focused on improving Tilsbury Reserve and the nearby bridge and stopbanks, and developing spaces to rest and socialise.
Paeroa’s plans looked at developing Wharf St into a connection between the Ohinemuri River and the town centre, along with revitalising areas like TeTūīkairangi Primrose Hill, the domain, and the shopping area along Belmont St.
All the townships would also receive enhanced signage, planting and street furniture.
Funding for some of the projects was already accounted for in the council’s long term plan, but the report said additional funding would need to be sourced from external agencies and institutions.
Meanwhile, the council also agreed to review its local alcohol, smoke- and vape-free, and gambling policies. Public consultation for these began on September 27.
