Pause for paws – NCC dog park renovations to begin

Published: 27 April 2018

Napier tails will be wagging at news that Council is about to embark on renovations to the popular Ruff Ruff Woof enclosed dog park in Taradale.

The space will be closed temporarily from Monday to allow for the upgrades to the Napier City Council facility; these include better sun protection via a shade sail and tree planting, improvements to the grassed areas and a larger concreted zone for dog exercise.

The fully fenced, off-lead dog play area, located behind the Pettigrew Green Arena, was first opened in 2015 as has proven popular as a secure recreational area for four-legged Napierites and their human companions.

NCC's Hayleigh Brereton: "It’s been great to see the facility so well-used. However, it’s time now for some maintenance, some planting and to improve the experience for all of our users."

Local dog walking groups typically meet at the facility to begin or end their walks, pop in to pick up a doggie litter bag, or use the canine water station. There is agility equipment on offer too, so dogs can improve their flexibility, accuracy and recall with owners.

“It’s been great to see the facility so well-used since its inception,” says NCC Manager Regulatory Solutions, Hayleigh Brereton. “However, it’s time now for some maintenance, some planting and to improve the experience for all of our users, as well as those who haven’t yet come and used the play area.”

Maintenance and renovation will take around six weeks to complete. The closedown period will also allow time to review security measures at the park. In the interim, dog owners are encouraged to use other fresh air off-lead areas such as Anderson Park, Park Island and parts of Marine Parade.

For more information on NCC regulations regarding dog control, including the location of off-leash spaces, please see www.napier.govt.nz/services/animal-education.

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