Dog lovers are in for a treat this Saturday, with Bark in the Park and Pooch in the Pool combining to deliver a full day of canine‑friendly fun at Memorial Park and Memorial Pool.

Hosted by Tauranga City Council’s Animal Services team, Bark in the Park runs from 9am to 12pm and offers a relaxed, family‑friendly atmosphere complete with live music, food trucks and expert advice on responsible dog ownership.

Just next door, Pooch in the Pool will run from 10am to 4pm, giving dogs the chance to take over Memorial Pool for one final splash before it closes for the season. Together, the events promise a celebration of dogs, community and shared spaces.

Bark in the Park is free and open to all ages. Dog owners are encouraged to bring leashes, water for their dogs and their best dog‑park manners.

The Animal Services team will be onsite throughout the morning, sharing practical advice and information about responsible dog ownership and the work they do in the community.

Animal Services team leader Oscar Glossop said the event is all about bringing people together.

“We’re really looking forward to hosting Bark in the Park again. It’s a great opportunity to meet dog owners, share tips, and celebrate the way our community cares for their dogs.

“We value the relationships we build through events like this. Everyone is welcome to come along, with or without a dog. There will be food trucks, giveaways, live music and plenty of activities to keep the whole whānau entertained.”

Adding to the festivities, local artist Sam Allen has created a service dog mural at Memorial Park, featuring dogs from Blind Low Vision New Zealand, the Department of Conservation, Search and Rescue, and a medical therapy service.

Dogs day out: Bark in the Park and Pooch in the Pool return to Tauranga this weekend. Photo / Tauranga City Council

Allen will be onsite to officially open the mural and share the stories behind the artwork.

“It adds another special element to what will be a great day,” Glossop said.

Meanwhile, Pooch in the Pool offers dogs a rare chance to swap grass for water before Memorial Pool closes for the season.

Swim sessions are scheduled by size to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, with small dogs from 10am to 12pm, medium dogs from 12pm to 2pm, and large dogs from 2pm to 4pm.

Bay Venues community facilities general manager Paul Dunphy said the pool will be specially prepared for the event, with water levels lowered and chlorine removed.

For safety reasons, dog owners are not permitted to swim with their pets.

“Pooch in the Pool is all about celebrating our four‑legged friends and bringing the community together in a fun, memorable way,” Dunphy said.

The event will also feature food stalls, an obstacle course, entertainment, photo competitions with instant Polaroid keepsakes, and dedicated play areas for smaller dogs.

Tickets for Pooch in the Pool cost $16 for one dog, or $11 for each additional dog, with $3 from every ticket donated to Vada’s Angels Animal Rescue Tauranga.

Tickets can be purchased in advance from Baywave Aquatic and Leisure Centre, Memorial Pool, or online, and will also be available on the day via EFTPOS.

With wristbands allowing easy re‑entry, attendees are encouraged to make a day of it and soak up all the paw‑some fun on offer.