The Howick Local Board put $65,000 into expanding the Pakuranga park’s off-leash area
A pack of furry friends has descended upon Auckland’s newest dog park expansion to bark approval at Howick’s own Lloyd Elsmore Park.
The expanded off-leash area cost $65,000 and was funded by the Howick Local Board.
“Local dog owners told us the old space was too small and their dogs needed more room to explore, play and stay active,” Board chair Bruce Kendall said.
“We’re thrilled to have delivered this, and the positive response has already sparked requests for similar spaces across our area.”
The Board made the existing park bigger rather than splitting it into separate areas for large and small dogs.
“Rather than separating large and small dogs, the extension has been designed to provide more room for everyone,” Kendall said.
“The additional space offers natural shade, seating, and quieter areas for owners and dogs who prefer a relaxed walk or somewhere peaceful to sit, socialise and enjoy the park.”
The work added a second entrance, improved the pathways and drainage, and put up new signage to help visitors find the park and move around it.
Existing play equipment, tyres and other materials were reused where possible.
The Board also funded a dog-friendly drinking fountain and the water connection to supply it.
There was no public water connection near the dog park, and the Council applied to Watercare to install one.
Shortly after it opened, local dog owners organised their own Cavoodles, Oodles and Small Dogs meet-up.
The Council called that an early sign of how much the new space is valued.
Lloyd Elsmore Park also holds sports fields, walking tracks, a playground and skate facilities, the Howick Pakuranga netball courts, the pool and leisure centre, Howick Historical Village and Howick Little Theatre.
The Lloyd Elsmore dog park is at 2 Sir Lloyd Drive, Pakuranga, adjacent to the Netball Centre carparks.
