Poll: What do you think about MPI's new dog-on-ute law?
Dogs on the back of a ute, on a dusty rural road: a scene that captures heartland New Zealand. But new MPI animal welfare regulations promise to complicate moving sheepdogs between paddocks, and other farming practices besides, with the threat of a fine from October.
Dogs on the back of a truck, trailer or ute, travelling on a public road, had to be tied up with a leash or rope, if not in a cage or crate. The only exception to the rule was if farm dogs were actively helping to move livestock along public roads, in which case they could jump on and off a vehicle.
People caught breaking that law could be fined up to $900 under new Animal Welfare Regulations from October. Read the ministry's guide to the Animal Welfare (Care and Procedures) Regulations at mpi.govt.nz. Read more here
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26.1% I disagree - Farmers should be able to do what they've done for years
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36.8% I support it - let's keep the dogs safe!
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29.3% Farmers should make their own decisions
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7.8% It can't be monitored
Some Choice News!
DOC is rolling out a new tool to help figure out what to tackle first when it comes to protecting our threatened species and the things putting them at risk.
Why does this matter? As Nikki Macdonald from The Post points out, we’re a country with around 4,400 threatened species. With limited time and funding, conservation has always meant making tough calls about what gets attention first.
For the first time, DOC has put real numbers around what it would take to do everything needed to properly safeguard our unique natural environment. The new BioInvest tool shows the scale of the challenge: 310,177 actions across 28,007 sites.
Now that we can see the full picture, it brings the big question into focus: how much do we, as Kiwis, truly value protecting nature — and what are we prepared to invest to make it happen?
We hope this brings a smile!
⛰️ Is Bream Head the ultimate Northland spot?
According to The Press, the Bream Head Scenic Reserve at Whangārei Heads has it all: the best views, the best forest, and the best adventures.
Do you have a hidden gem that gives Bream Head a run for its money?
We’re on a mission to find Northland's best "Secret Spots" 🤫
We want to hear from you! What is your go-to spot when you want to show off the best of the North to friends or family? 📸
Drop your recommendations (and photos!) in the comments below! 👇
Get up to $30,000 back* with your new home
Sign up to an independent apartment or townhouse at a participating Ryman village by 31 March 2026 and receive a $30,000 credit on settlement or sign up to a serviced apartment and receive a $10,000 credit on settlement*.
Imagine a new smart TV, your next getaway or furniture for your new home. With more money staying in your pocket, it’s yours to spend!
Discover the lifestyle that awaits.
*Participating villages only, Terms and conditions apply.
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