DOC Addressing Waioweka Gorge Wild Dog Issue

DOC said their rangers are actively working on a response to the wild dogs posing a threat to stock and native wildlife in the Waioweka Gorge.

Local conservation group Eastern Whio Link called for public assistance in reporting and controlling multiple packs of wild dogs earlier this week. 

The group raised concerns for kiwi and whio populations, as well as the safety of hunters during the roar. 

DOC Eastern North Island Region Director Jade Kinghazel said DOC is actively working with landowners to respond to the issue. 

"Uncontrolled and feral dogs are elusive and can cover large areas, so any reports of sightings will assist us in planning to locate and remove the dogs as soon as the weather allows."

"We know this area is extremely popular with hunters during the roar, so DOC is working to address this as quickly as we can."

While the work continues, DOC is urging hunters to stay alert and maintain distance from the dogs as they may be dangerous. 

It said three feral dogs were recently removed from the area, but four dogs are still at large. 

"These have been described as one Fox Terrier, one Pitbull or a similar breed, and two younger dogs which appear to be crosses of the two."

"Three are black or dark in colour with white markings, while one of the younger dogs is whiter than the others."

Eastern Whio Link Co-Chair Sam "The Trap Man" Gibson urges caution when identifying the dogs, even if they match the descriptions. 

"By no means are we suggesting that people go out and shoot dogs willy-nilly."

"It's about shooting those dogs that have been identified as being part of a wild pack," he said. 

Both agencies aknowledge the issue may be distressing for the public. 

"Our focus in this area continues to be on protecting vulnerable native species and reducing risk to visitors, while working constructively with partner agencies," Kinghazel said. 

DOC urges anyone who has sightings, locations, and images of the dogs to contact 0800 DOC HOT. 

Anyone who loses a dog on coservation land should also use this line to let DOC know.