DOC condemns avoidable dog attacks on penguins

This year, DOC staff have observed a worrying number of dog attacks on penguins. Since December 2023, a total of eight of the cases reported to DOC have been confirmed as being killed by dogs. For a further seven birds, the cause of death remained unconfirmed but they sustained injuries consistent with dog attacks.

Although Wellington City Council recently erected a fence and put up a sign warning of fines for dogs not on a leash, an eyewitness saw a dog near penguin nesting boxes inside the fenced area. He also heard one of the penguins being attacked and although he tried to scare the dog away, it was too late.

Angus Hulme-Moir, DOC operations manager for Kapiti-Wellington, says the team is shocked.

“A whole community is deeply saddened by the death of these kororā,” Angus says. “These are beautiful birds whose habitat and home we share, and a simple way for us to do this is to keep dogs on leads in designated areas. If you are unsure whether dogs are allowed in a particular area, check with your nearest council or DOC office, or before you travel.”

“There are many areas where dogs are allowed to run off-leash and pose no danger to wildlife. If you want to let your dog off-leash, just go there.”

“The saddest thing is that the deaths of these penguins could have been completely avoided if people had simply followed the rules.”

All three kororā found last week were microchipped and part of an established colony monitored by Places for Penguins volunteers in the area.

If people ignore the rules or conditions governing dog access, they may be fined or prosecuted. A dog may also be seized and imprisoned or killed if found in a controlled dog area without permission.

The Lead the Way initiative seeks to prevent these situations through advocacy and education, giving dog owners the opportunity to safely share the beach with wildlife.

Members of the public can report to DOC where dogs are not allowed by calling

• 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).