Taradale's Ruff Ruff Woof dog park reopening after closure

Residents enjoying the official opening of the dog park last Friday. Photo / Supplied

Hairy Maclary and all of his friends are being welcomed back to the Ruff Ruff Woof dog exercise area, behind Pettigrew Green Arena.

The space was temporarily closed to allow for a number of planned upgrades, including the installation a shade sail for better sun protection, tree planting, improvements to the grassed areas and a larger concreted zone for dog exercise.

On Friday, canines and their humans were welcomed back and invited to try out the improved facility. Picking up the theme, The Breeze Hawke's Bay team was on hand to provide American hot dogs and spot prizes, and Napier City Council's Animal Control team imparted advice and insights to dog owners, as well as on-the-spot dog registrations in a pop-up processing area.

"We were pleased to meet around 40 dogs and their owners," said NCC manager regulatory solutions, Hayleigh Brereton.

"And we were impressed by the responsible conduct we saw at the event – owners had their dogs under control at all times, even when off the lead, and that's the kind of behaviour we love to see at our park."

In fact, behaviour is a key focus for Ms Brereton and her team and new signage has been installed to reinforce expectations.

"We had some unsavoury and unpleasant behaviour reported to us prior to closing for renovations so we've taken this opportunity to refresh our signage and make sure that the ground rules are crystal clear. It's important that our park is accessible to everyone, and that all users feel safe and supported within this environment."

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

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.

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