Proposed updates to Porirua’s Keeping of Animals Bylaw could bring significant changes for residents with cats, bees, chickens, or other animals. The Porirua City Council has opened consultations today on the revisions, aiming to strengthen regulations to prevent noise and hygiene issues while clarifying enforcement measures.
The bylaw, which governs domestic animals in the city, proposes new rules as Porirua anticipates increased housing density. For cats, the changes would introduce requirements for desexing, microchipping, and registration. While over 6,000 cats are currently registered, the measures aim to curb feral cat issues and protect wildlife.
Beehive limits are also included, with properties under 500 square metres being prohibited from keeping hives. Properties between 501–1000 square metres could keep two hives, and those larger than 1000 square metres could have up to four. Porirua currently hosts 115 registered apiaries, comprising 405 colonies.
For livestock, the proposal aligns with new urban development standards, including a ban on rabbits in the central business district and limiting chickens to six per property in suburban and central areas, with roosters excluded entirely.
Feedback has been sought from various stakeholders, including the SPCA, Apiculture NZ, and Wellington Beekeepers Club. Public submissions are open until 10 February, and residents can share their views online, via email, or at council offices and libraries.
Visit poriruacity.govt.nz/consultation for more information and to participate in the consultation process.