Canines unleashed as they explore new playground

FURRY FUN PARK: Melinda Harries and her two huskies, Zeus (left) and Luna went along to the official opening of Tauranga's first dog park on Saturday. PHOTO/ANDREW WARNER

Almost every man and his dog came along for the Dog's Breakfast official opening of the first designated dog park in Tauranga at the weekend.

About 100 dogs of all shapes, colour and sizes got the chance to run amok at the new off-leash dog exercise area at TECT All Terrain Park.

The 1ha dog-friendly space offers canines a social environment to play and exercise off a leash in open terrain and bush.

The well-fenced area meant roaming pups could not stray and a water dish kept them hydrated for more play.

Tauranga Mayor Stuart Crosby and Western Bay of Plenty Mayor Ross Paterson welcomed the keen dog owners and officially opened the gates to the ground.

Mr Crosby said the park was needed to support the rapid urban growth of Tauranga and the Western Bay.

"Tauranga City has over 11,000 dogs with a population of 123,000 people so this area will be fantastic for all dog users," Mr Crosby said.

Tauranga dog owner Melinda Harries brought her two huskies, Zeus and Luna, along to trial their new playground.

The designated dog park was long overdue for dog owners in the Western Bay, she said.

"This is just awesome ... this gives the dogs the opportunity to be off their lead in a safe environment.

"People aren't always so happy when you let your dog off the leash for them to run around but here dogs can just enjoy it," she said.