Mihiata Te Rore, 62, died after being attacked by dogs while visiting a person she knew in Kaihu, Northland, on Tuesday.
A History of Warnings
The attack has sparked renewed concern over dog control in the region, with reports that authorities were warned about the dogs involved in the past year. A local resident stated the dogs had previously attacked his own dog “all four” of them, six months prior to Tuesday’s fatal incident.
The resident described living near the dogs as “really quite frightening,” adding that he feared for his safety even completing simple tasks like collecting mail.
The incident comes as the Kaipara District Council faces scrutiny over its handling of dog control issues. Statistics display the number of dogs impounded by the council more than doubled between 2021 and 2025.
During the period from July 2022 to July 2025, there were 174 call-outs related to dog attacks, yet only one person was prosecuted.
Calls for Action
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described Te Rore’s death as “unacceptable” and stated he expects the Kaipara District Council to capture action within seven days to address the issue of roaming dogs.
Meanwhile, Auckland Council’s Animal Management department reported that its recent push for government reform of dog control laws was unsuccessful, with the government indicating on Tuesday that it was not considering changes to the Dog Control Act.
Police are currently investigating the incident and have asked anyone in the Kaihu community with information about roaming dogs to approach forward. The three dogs involved in the attack are now in the care of Animal Management.
Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer stated the investigation is in its early stages, and that Te Rore suffered “unsurvivable injuries.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened on Tuesday?
Mihiata Te Rore, 62, was attacked and killed by three dogs while visiting a person she knew at a property in Kaihu, Northland.
What has been the response from authorities?
Police are investigating, and the dogs involved are with Animal Management. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has called on the Kaipara District Council to take action within seven days.
Has this happened before in Northland?
Te Rore is the third person to be killed by dogs in Northland in the past four years.
What more can be done to ensure the safety of communities living near potentially dangerous dogs?
