Great quality, have had them before and they don't degrade
Dog Identification & Tag Laws in New Zealand
1. Microchipping (Legal Requirement)
All dogs first registered in New Zealand must be microchipped (with some exceptions like working farm dogs). This law comes from the Dog Control Act 1996 and related regulations.
You must arrange for a functioning microchip to be implanted (done usually by a vet).
Once microchipped, you need to provide the microchip certificate or scanned microchip number to your local council so it can be recorded in their dog register (and thus the National Dog Database (NDD)).
Failing to microchip a dog that legally must be microchipped may result in penalties (fines up to NZ$3,000).
Microchipping is a one-off requirement, but registration runs yearly.
Note: Most councils will register dogs only after the microchip number has been submitted.
2. Council Registration & Tags
All dogs over 3 months old must be registered annually with the local council in the area where you live.
When registered, councils issue a registration tag or disc that:
- Shows the registration number
- Indicates the council issuing it
- Often includes the expiry year (some councils rotate tag colours yearly)
Dogs must wear their council tag when in public.
Registration fees vary by council and may differ by dog type (e.g., working dogs, neutered dogs).
Failure to register on time can attract fines (commonly around $300 but vary by region).
3. Collars & External ID Tags (Best Practice)
While not always legally required, it is strongly recommended (and required in some council bylaws) to have a collar with an ID tag showing your name and contact details so anyone who finds a lost dog can contact you immediately.
Microchips are permanent but require scanning; external tags help immediate identification without special equipment.
Cats & Other Pets
Cats
There is no nationwide legal requirement to microchip or tag cats in New Zealand.
Some local councils/districts have bylaw requirements mandating microchipping (e.g., Wellington City Council and others).
Even where not required, microchipping and ID tags for cats are strongly recommended to help reunite them if lost.
Other companion animals
Microchipping non-dog pets (rabbits, birds, horses, etc.) is voluntary but recommended.
Key Takeaways
|
Pet Type |
Microchip Required? |
Council Tag Required? |
Recommended? External ID Tag? |
|
Dog |
Yes (generally) |
Yes (annual registration) |
Yes — highly recommended |
|
Cat |
No (nationally) |
No (nationally) |
Yes — recommended |
|
Other pets |
Optional |
No |
Optional |
Tips for Owners
Keep your microchip details up to date — if you move home or change contact info, update the council and whichever register your chip is on (e.g., local council/National Dog Database, NZ Companion Animal Register).
Check local council rules for cats — requirements may differ by city/district.
Even if not required, always use external ID tags to improve chances of quick return if your pet gets lost.