The Whakatāne District Council is urging residents using the new Ōhiwa Harbourside Trail to be considerate when exercising their dogs. Council has received a number of complaints regarding an increase in the amount of dog mess left on and around the trail, largely due to dogs that are not on leads, and owners who are not living up to their responsibilities. 

Whakatāne District Council Manager Community Regulation, Graeme Lewer, says unlike Ōhope Beach, the Harbourside Trail is a dog-on-leash area. 

"This new trail is a great asset for the community, so it's a shame to see people ignoring the rules and spoiling it for the responsible trail users and upsetting nearby residents."

Mr Lewer says it's important that dogs get the exercise they need, but it's equally important to ensure they're doing this under supervision and in the appropriate place. "There are a number of dog exercise areas throughout the District where residents can take their dogs off the lead and let them have a run around," he says. "We also ask that dog mess is bagged and disposed of considerately.

"Dog owners need to respect other people's rights to use reserves - no-one wants their day ruined because of an irresponsible dog owner."

Find out more about responsible dog ownership and designated dog exercise areas.