Proposed changes to off-leash dog areas in east Auckland’s Madills Farm Recreation Reserve have sparked controversy among local dog owners, who argue that the new rules will disrupt community life and hurt social connections. Auckland Council’s ongoing Dog Bylaw review has led to discussions about altering access to parks for dogs, with the Ōrākei Local Board suggesting a ban on dogs from the sports fields at Madills Farm and Glover Park.
Claudia Elze, founder of the local advocacy group Dogs of Madills, voiced strong opposition to the proposed changes, which she says would create unsafe spaces for dogs. She pointed out that the areas being considered for off-leash use are often uneven, prone to flooding, and unsuitable for the winter months when the ground can’t be mowed. Furthermore, she explained that these areas would push dog owners closer to busy roads, creating additional risks.
Elze highlighted the importance of having grassed areas for elderly dog owners, as walking dogs on pavement can be difficult for them. “To rest on the benches and allow your dog to play with others on grass is vital to both human and animal well-being,” she said, emphasizing the positive impact on mental health for both dogs and their owners.
In defense of the proposal, Local Board Chair Scott Milne explained that the recommended changes aim to protect the sports fields, which have sustained damage due to digging by dogs and use during wet conditions. Milne noted that repairing the damage was costly for ratepayers, leading to the board’s recommendations.
However, Elze disputed the claim that dogs were causing the damage, suggesting instead that the wear and tear was primarily the result of sports activities, including the footwear used by athletes and the setup for events like cricket or Round the Bays.
Elze further argued that mixed-use spaces like parks are crucial for fostering social ties and community cohesion. She expressed concern that the debate over the new rules had created a “them against us” attitude, which was damaging to local unity. “When you’ve got spaces designated for one group only, other people feel cheated,” she said.
For dog owners like Elze, the situation is about more than just a space for pets; it’s about maintaining shared spaces that everyone can enjoy. She proposed that dog owners would be willing to contribute to the maintenance of these parks, even if it meant an increase in local rates. “As ratepayers for these fields, we expect the continued use of the entire space as it is today—a mixed-use space for all to enjoy,” she added.
As the debate continues, the future of the off-leash zones at Madills Farm and Glover Park remains uncertain, with both sides voicing passionate opinions about the balance between community access and the protection of public spaces.
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