A person has died following a dog attack in Northland earlier today. Reported by 1news.
Emergency services were called to a property on State Highway 12 in Kaihu at around 11.25am after reports of a serious dog attack. St John dispatched one ambulance and a helicopter to the scene.
Inspector Maria Nordstrom confirmed that responders arrived to find one person deceased. A scene examination is now underway.
"We can confirm there is no risk to the public in relation to this incident and the dogs have been restrained."
A spokesperson for the Kaipara District Council told 1News that its animal management team was assisting emergency services.
"The dogs have been secured. At this stage, we are unable to provide any further details or comment while a response and investigation is underway."
Minister Seeks Urgent Advice
Local Government Minister Simon Watts described the incident as deeply distressing.
"This is an absolute tragedy, and my thoughts are with the victim’s family and the wider community".
He acknowledged ongoing concerns about roaming dogs across the country.
"Roaming dogs are a serious issue facing many communities across the country, and I share the frustration of those dealing with them. People deserve to feel safe in their neighbours, they shouldn’t have to carry clubs or bats just to walk their own streets."
Watts said the Department of Internal Affairs is continuing efforts to strengthen dog control measures, including improving the quality and consistency of national dog-related data.
"The department is also working with the local government sector to refresh and improve dog control enforcement guidelines. This work will ensure consistent enforcement across New Zealand, and updated guidelines are expected to be issued by the beginning of Quarter 3, 2026.
"Following today’s tragic event, I have additionally asked officials for urgent advice on all available options to address this issue immediately."
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