Source: NZ Department of Conservation
Date: 27 May 2025
Dogs (or other pets) are not allowed in Tongariro National Park, not even inside cars, to protect its fragile ecosystems and cultural heritage for which it has Dual World Heritage status.
Large new signs have been placed at three main entrances to the park to ensure all visitors know the rules.
Community Ranger Clodagh Costello says the team and their pooches had a bit of fun showing off the new ‘no dog’ signs just outside the Ohakune entrance to the national park.
“Our dogs were a little excited, I’m not sure they got the message to be honest. But it’s us owners who need to take responsibility,” says Clodagh.
“In Aotearoa, our environment is part of our identity, and dogs are part of how we connect with nature – but there’s a right time and place, and a national park isn’t one of them.”
Any dog can make a mistake and attack wildlife like the iconic brown kiwi present in Tongariro National Park. Even a dog standing around doing nothing can change the behaviour of wildlife.
Clodagh says there are many places to legally take dogs into nature, and the DOC website is a good place to check for options on Public Conservation Land.
“It’s important we have some places where wildlife can just be wild, without the influence of our pets.”
Disturbing or harming absolutely protected wildlife, including brown kiwi and whio, is an offence under the Wildlife Act 1953. Those in control of a dog which disturbs, or harms wildlife could be liable for an infringement fine of up to $800.
“With these signs we’re sending a clear message. Pleading ignorance is not an option for dog owners,” says Clodagh.
DOC’s Whakapapa and Ohakune offices sit within the boundaries of Tongariro National Park, so staff won’t be getting a ‘bring your dog to work’ day any time soon.
Background information
No dogs are not allowed in Tongariro National Park including Whakapapa Village, Whakapapa Ski Area, Tūroa Ski Area or inside vehicles anywhere in the park.
The national park boundary starts at the intersection of SH 47 and SH 48. No dogs are allowed anywhere past this point.
Contact
For media enquiries contact:
Email: media@doc.govt.nz
