FAQs | Ngā putuputu pātai

The Animals (Excluding Dogs) Bylaw sets the rules on how animals (other than dogs) are kept in the District, to reduce nuisance and protect health and wellbeing.

The minor changes adopted in 2025 to the Animals (Excluding Dogs) Bylaw 2025 included: 

1. Removal of definitions for words not used in the bylaw (e.g. cycle or bicycle, vehicle, Offensive Matter / Liquid)
2. Addition of definition of ‘Act’ to reference the Local Government Act 2002
3. Addition of a definition of ‘stock’ as referred to in clause 1.1 as to the grazing of stock in public places.
4. Removal of the definition of ‘Owner’ in relation to a motor vehicle and replacing it with ‘Owner’ in relation to an animal.  

Council is required to regularly review its bylaws to ensure they remain fit for purpose. This review is an opportunity to check whether the bylaw is still working well for our community and to hear your views on whether any changes are needed.

You can join the kōrero in the following ways:

• Online, wānanga ipurangi - You can complete our online survey [link].
• Hard copy, pepa mārō - Drop your feedback off at any of our Library and Service Centres in Waihī Beach, Katikati, Ōmokoroa, Te Puke or to the main Council Office at Barkes Corner.
• Email, īmēra - yourplace@westernbay.govt.nz
• Or post, mēra - Send your feedback to: Animals (Excluding Dogs) Bylaw Review, Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Private Bag 12803, Tauranga Mail Centre, Tauranga 3143.

Council will acknowledge in writing or by email (if provided) the receipt of your feedback and all feedback will be considered through Council’s deliberations process. All submitters who provided email or postal details will receive a decision document.