Off-leash dogs cause safety concerns on Auckland shared path

An Auckland resident says off leash dogs are a safety issue on a popular coastal walkway in Beachlands and the local board should install better signage for pet owners.

Speaking at Tuesday’s Franklin Local Board meeting, Lyn Murison said residents were concerned about the coastal walkway between Omahuru Road, Papaka Avenue and Kahawai Point.

The narrow strip is unsuitable for off-leash dogs and poses a safety risk, she said.

“We’re respectfully requesting clear signage stating that dogs must be on leash at all times along the path,” she said.

Murison described the walkway as a heavily used shared space which runs close to the road, with reduced visibility and unpredictable traffic flows.

“Having dogs off-leash in such a confined area poses a genuine safety threat.

Local residents have asked the Franklin Local Board to require dogs to be kept on leash at all times along the Beachlands coastal walkway. Photo/RNZ

“It only takes a second for someone or a dog to step suddenly onto the road… and the consequences can be serious.”

The path is regularly used by walkers, runners, families with young children and people on scooters or skateboards, she said.

Murison stressed the group was not opposed to dog ownership.

“Many of us are dog owners, and we support responsible dog ownership."

However, she said this is not the place to have an off-leash dog.

“We’re not asking to limit dog ownership. We’re simply asking for sensible, practical safety measures.”

She also disputed the description of the area as a reserve.

“In reality, this is a narrow landscaped strip with very steep drop-offs in places, and there’s a footpath that runs alongside it.

"This isn’t a grassed field or a safe place where a dog can run freely.”

Murison said off-leash dogs could damage native plantings and disturb wildlife, including tūī.

Safety concerns about off-leash dogs were raised with the Franklin Local Board during a recent meeting. Photo/Auckland Council

“I don’t trust anybody or their dogs,” board member Merritt Watson said during the discussion.

Board member Gary Holmes said clearer signage identifying designated “on leash areas” could help reduce confusion and improve compliance with the dog bylaw.

Chair Alan Cole noted the board had already resolved on-leash areas under the bylaw.

Funding exists for signage, but further discussion would be required to determine what improvements are prioritised.

Murison also asked about the cost of signage and whether the community could contribute financially.

The Franklin Local Board has requested staff advice on options to improve dog-bylaw signage in Beachlands. Photo/Auckland Council

“How much are the signs? Could the community raise money?” she asked.

Another attendee supporting Murison said residents were willing to buy and install the signs, but were concerned people would question their legitimacy if they were not official council signage.

In response, the board requested the Parks and Community Facilities team provide advice on options to address the concerns.

The motion referenced the board’s existing investment in park and facility signage under its current work programme.

Board members were advised that funding is available within the current financial year for signage improvements.

However, prioritisation across the Franklin area would need to be discussed at a workshop before decisions are made.

The board will reconsider the matter once staff provide formal advice on available options and funding allocation.

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.