Ten-year-old Pippa, a snack-loving, toy-shredding springer spaniel–labrador mix, has earned her family a free year of dog registration.

Congratulations to Bridget Gill of Matamata, who won a free year’s dog registration for 2026/27, valued at $172. The competition ran from 22 April to 8 May 2026 and encouraged owners in the district to receive their registration notices by email rather than post.

Pippa was born in Tahuna as part of a litter of ten and has always been connected to the Gill family. Originally owned by her daughter and grandchildren, Pippa soon moved in with Bridget, as the grandchildren were a little too young to care for a dog. It didn’t take long for her to become a much-loved member of the household.

When asked if she would encourage other dog owners to register their pets, Bridget said, “Absolutely. It’s an easy process, and the council staff are great to deal with if you have any enquiries.”

Registering and microchipping your dog plays an important role, “It provides a great chance to be reunited with your pet. If they aren’t microchipped, it makes it much harder,” Bridget explained. She recalls how her cousin’s pet went missing while they were on holiday, only for them to receive a phone call eight years later saying it had been found and was ready to be picked up.

Pippa has a big personality, especially when it comes to food! Described as a nonstop eater she loves all kinds of treats, with chicken strips being a particular favourite. She also enjoys playing with her toys, especially tearing them apart, and going on her nightly walks around the Matamata area, including visits to the reserves on Peria Road.

“Dogs are a wonderful part of family life, and they don’t need a lot, just food, water, a fence, and plenty of love and time,” Bridget said. She also emphasised the importance of giving your dog time to settle in and adjust to their new routine when joining a household. When asked for advice to new dog owners, Bridget didn’t hesitate, “You always, always need a dog in the family!”

There are many great locations across the district for both on- and off-leash exercise. You can find a list of dog-friendly exercise areas on our website here. 

For tips, updates, and all things dog-related, you can sign up for our ‘Doggo in the District’ e-newsletter here. 

Life can get busy, we understand that. That’s why many of our services are available online, including dog registration (new and renewals), ownership transfers, and updates such as notifying us if your pet has passed away. To manage your details without needing to visit a council office visit, just click here.

Save the date! Registration notices for 2026/27 will be sent out in June 2026 and all dogs must be registered by 31 July 2026.