Pet owners across New Zealand are once again being invited to put their furry friends in the spotlight.

The SPCA has launched its search for the stars of its 2027 Pets of the Year calendars.

Entries opened yesterday and run through to June 29, with cat and dog owners encouraged to submit their best photos for a chance to feature in the annual calendars.

This year’s competition comes with an added layer of intrigue, as reigning feline favourite Deli Department faces growing competition for the top spot.

The popular cat has secured the front cover of the SPCA’s cat calendar for the past four years, raising the question of whether he can achieve a fifth consecutive win.

Deli’s owner, Jessie MacNeil, said the support behind him continued to amaze her.

“Deli’s audience has been dutifully preparing to launch him to victory, along with spreading some joy to other cats who might need a boost. Regardless of who comes out on top, Deli and I are so happy to support Pets of the Year and help SPCA’s sick, vulnerable and injured animals each year.”

Deli Department has held the top spot five times. Photo / SPCA

MacNeil fostered Deli when he was just a week old, returning him to the SPCA once he was ready for adoption.

However, after quickly forming a strong bond, Deli found his way back to MacNeil just two weeks later, where he has remained ever since.

SPCA chief executive Todd Westwood said entering the competition was simple and encouraged pet owners to showcase their animals’ personalities.

“All you need to do is enter your pet and capture your photogenic furry friend’s best side – a picture that lets their personality shine and will brighten faces and fridges across the country in the SPCA 2027 calendar,” he said.

“We want to see your favourite photo that shows off your pet’s personality, whether it be quirky, goofy, grumpy, sassy or royal. Whether they’re a serial sock thief, a puddle-jumping champion, or the king of cat naps, we want to hear it all.”

Westwood said the competition was about more than just cute photos, with every entry helping support animals in need.

“By entering Pets of the Year, you’ll help us fill the pages of our 2027 cat and dog calendars with feel-good moments, all while supporting animals across New Zealand. Your efforts will help provide medical care, shelter, and a second chance for vulnerable animals.”

The campaign is supported by The Coffee Club, with prizes provided by Giftiee powered by iGo, The Coffee Club and Purina.

Winners in both the cat and dog categories will receive Giftiee digital Visa cards, with first, second and third place taking home $500, $300 and $200 respectively. Those placing fourth to twelfth will receive $30 vouchers from The Coffee Club.

For more information or to enter, visit the SPCA Pets of the Year campaign online.