Microchipping

Legislation on microchipping came into effect on 1 July 2006, requiring dogs to be microchipped within two months of their first registration.

This legislation was brought in to make it easier to reunite lost dogs with their owners, while also helping Animal Control staff around the country to keep track of problem dogs and their owners. The microchip provides a secure, life-long identification for your dog.

You must microchip dogs that are:

  • Being registered for the first time.

  • Impounded and unregistered.

  • Impounded a second time since 1 July 2006.

  • All of the following breeds: 

    • Brazilian Fila

    • Dogo Argentino

    • Japanese Tosa

    • Pitt Bull Terriers or predominantly Pitt Bull types

  • Classified as dangerous or menacing by action since 1 December 2003.

Exemptions

Working farm dogs do not need to be microchipped, butyou may need to prove that this applies to your dog.  If your dog is impounded while unregistered, it may be microchipped.

Failure to microchip

If your dog is not microchipped within two months of its registration, you may be issued a $300 infringement notice.

Stay up-to-date

Sign up to our newsletter Scuttlebutt and stay up-to-date with the latest news, events and information in the Queenstown Lakes District.