Dogs are required to be under effective control at all times in public places, even in our off-leash areas.

We're proposing to update our definition and better describe what 'effective control' means, so it's clear what is required of people with dogs.

Pioneer Park is a closed cemetery, so we're proposing to remove it from our off-leash areas, as we have rules which prohibit dogs from cemeteries (we're also thinking about changing this rule, see below).

We're also proposing to reduce the off-leash exercise area at Smallbone Drive Reserve as it's now a popular place for disc golf.

We're proposing to extend the off-leash areas at Argyle Park and Company Road in the Ashburton Business Estate.

While not our preferred option, we're also looking for feedback on the alternative option of removing the off-leash areas from Argyle Park and requiring dogs to remain on-leash.

We've identified three locations around the district that could be used as new off-leash exercise areas. These include areas in Lake Hood, Braebrook (Ashburton) and Methven.

We’re proposing to remove cemeteries from our list of prohibited areas and allow dogs into cemeteries while on a leash. This change would also require a small amendment to our Cemeteries Bylaw.

We're also proposing to extend the prohibited area at Ashton Beach to protect local biodiversity.

Council is also considering other changes that are smaller or more administrative in nature. We welcome your feedback on these.