In an effort to keep the land around Tauranga clean and green, Tauranga City Council has begun installing dog waste bag dispensers in local parks.

According to the Council, one in four homeowners own a pet dog and they create a lot of mess and now the Council is taking steps to ensure that dog owners can easily pick up after their pooches.

An example of the dog waste bag dispensers.

Animal Services team leader Brent Lincoln says the dispensers will make it easier for dog owners to clean up after their pets and will ensure that Tauranga's parks and reserves stay clean and safe for everyone's continued enjoyment.

'We wanted to make it as easy as possible for our residents to show courtesy for their fellow community members by picking up after their dogs – after all, no one likes stepping in dog waste, whether it's on a sports field or footpath.

'Picking up after your dog also means you're doing the right thing by the environment. When dog droppings are left outdoors and it rains, harmful bacteria from the droppings can be washed down the drains and end up in local waterways.”

So far 20 dispensers have been installed around the city and Brent states that the feedback from the general public has been positive so far, with community members telling Animal Services that they are pleased with the dispensers.

'Our Animal Services team has had some great comments from park users about the dispensers. People are really pleased that we're making it simple and convenient for dog owners to do the right thing.” Brent says.

People who are caught not cleaning up after their dogs run the risk of getting a $300 fine.