A new dog exercise area in Katikati will officially be celebrated later this month, following a community-driven effort to fund and build agility equipment at the site.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council is hosting a free event at Donegal Reserve on Saturday, June 27, running from 10am to 1pm and is inviting dog owners and their pets to test out the newly installed obstacles and enjoy a day of activities.

The park’s agility features include balance beams, sit-and-stay platforms and a dog seesaw, alongside landscaped areas created with support from local businesses and volunteers.

The celebration will feature trick training sessions led by certified trainer Bex Tasker of Positively Together, as well as a “Sniff and Seek” zone, a dog-mounted camera experience and spot prizes throughout the day.

Council reserves and facilities manager Peter Watson said in a media release that the project highlighted what could be achieved when council and the community worked together.

He said the fenced enclosure had been completed nearly two years ago, but lacked funding for equipment at the time.

The upgraded Katikati dog park includes landscaped areas and new obstacles for dogs to explore and enjoy. Photo / Western Bay of Plenty District Council

With support from community group Katch Katikati, fundraising efforts were launched to bring the space to life, including sponsorship from Raw Pawz, Franklin Vets and Katikati Vets, with donations through a Givealittle campaign.

Katikati MenzShed also contributed time and expertise to build the equipment once materials were secured.

Watson said the upcoming event was an opportunity to thank those involved and celebrate the completed facility with the wider community.