Explanatory note
This note is not part of the order, but is intended to indicate its general effect.
This order amends the Dog Control Act 1996 (the Act) by adding the Perro de Presa Canario breed (commonly known as the Presa Canario) to Schedule 4 of the Act. Schedule 4 lists the breeds or types of dogs that may not be imported into New Zealand but, if already in the country, must be muzzled when at large or in any public place or in any private way.
The Perro de Presa Canario has been used for organised dog fights. Its popularity increased after one of the breed was involved in a fatal attack on a human in California. At the time that these regulations were developed, the Department of Internal Affairs, the government body that administers the Act, was not aware of any of these dogs being present in New Zealand.
This order comes into force on a date to be set by Order in Council (the commencement order). Under section 78B of the Act, a commencement order may be made only after this order has been approved by resolution of the House of Representatives. Approval can be given no earlier than 28 days after the date on which this order is notified in the Gazette.