Annual registration costs for a pet dog in Central have increased from $55 to $72, a jump of 31 per cent, causing some dog owners to voice concerns about the rise.

The Central App asked Central Otago District Council (CODC) to provide a breakdown of what the increase covers.

CODC was unable to provide a breakdown, but did respond with a statement.

“The increase is to cover the increase in the cost of the service following increases to overheads charges e.g. insurance.

“The service is funded 100 per cent from registration fees. [CODC] does not make any revenue from dog registration fees.

“The fees pay for all costs regarding the day-to-day operation of the service, staff (1x support, 1x officer), a vehicle, dog pound, 24/7 service, patrols, enforcement, education.”

Compared with Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) and Southland, Central residents pay less for both pet and working dogs.

In QLDC a pet dog with a positive history and fenced section is $110, a working dog is $55 if it has a positive history and the property is fenced, again Southland has discounts, but a working dog is $40 and pet dog is $110 (before up to a $60 discount).

CODC’s fee for working dogs has remained at $12 per dog. 

Some residents commented on CODCs Facebook that they have never used dog control services and they feel they are paying for services for owners who have inadequately fenced properties, or roaming/barking dogs.   

In the 2022/2023 there were 6779 dogs registered in Central (0.22 per cent reduction on the previous year) to 4496 dog owners. 

CODC received 392 service requests, including 57 owners notifying lost dogs (10.1 per cent increase on the previous year.)

In 2022/23 there was a 125 per cent increase in the number of dogs impounded and 18 dogs were either reunited with their owner or re-homed. 

If residents have difficulty paying the fee by July 31, 2024, email: [email protected] to discuss payment options.

Read more: Changes introduced to CODC dog registration system