CONDITIONS OF ENTRY

 BarkFest is committed to promoting and advocating for the event to be a safe place for all.  These Conditions of entry aim to ensure safety, hygiene, and enjoyment for both dogs and their owners and the general public who attend. Owners/Handlers are encouraged to consider whether their dog would enjoy this environment before attending.

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General Entry Conditions

• All dogs must be accompanied by a responsible adult handler (16+).

• One dog per responsible adult handler are permitted.

• Dogs must be on a leash at all times unless in designated off-leash areas.

• Handlers must clean up after their dogs – poop bags must be carried and used.

• Dogs who display or are known to display aggressive behaviour towards people or dogs will be refused entry or asked to leave.

• Dogs must comply with council & government muzzling & leash requirements where applicable to them
   

Health & Safety

• All dogs must be fully vaccinated 

• Dogs must be in good health and not in season (heat).

• Dogs showing signs of illness (e.g. coughing, vomiting, diarrhoea) will be refused entry.

• Humans enter at their own risk – organisers are not liable for injury, loss, or damage.

Behaviour Expectations

• Handlers must be in control of their dogs at all times.

• Handlers are discouraged from allowing on leash greetings.

• No excessive barking or nuisance behaviour.

• Children must be supervised closely around unfamiliar dogs.

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Registration

• Pre-registration may be required for crowd control.

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Stall Holders

• All Stall holders are required to be pre registered and approved by Event Organsiers. They must also agree to Stall Holder Terms and Conditions.

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The Great NZ Dog Dash - Additional Terms and Conditions

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These conditions apply to all participants (human and canine) in the Great NZ Dog Dash at Barkfest, in addition to the general Barkfest Entry Terms & Conditions.

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1. Categories & Eligibility

   • Entrants must enter their dog in the category that best reflects their size, build, and breed type, as outlined in the event descriptions.

   • Event organisers reserve the right to reallocate a dog to a more appropriate category to help ensure fair competition.

   • Dogs must be at least 6 months old, in good health, and up-to-date with vaccinations.

2. Fun First, Fair Always

   • The Great NZ Dog Dash is designed as a light-hearted, community fun event — not a professional racing championship.

   • While every effort will be made to ensure a fair outcome, the organisers’ decision on race results, category placement, and any judges decision is final.

3. Dog Welfare & Safety

   • Dogs must remain under control at all times and be on a lead except when instructed to release them for the dash.

   • No harsh handling, shouting, or physical correction will be tolerated. Any behaviour deemed unsafe or distressing to a dog may result in disqualification.

4. Human Participation

   • Two people are required for each entry — one at the start and one at the finish.

   • Humans must not run alongside the dog or interfere with other competitors.

5. Start & Finish Procedures

   • Dogs must start from the designated start zone and cross the finish line without being carried.

   • Treats, toys, or verbal encouragement are permitted, but no physical assistance may be given once the race has started.

6. Photography & Media

   • By entering, you consent to your name, your dog’s name, and any photos or video taken during the event being used for Barkfest promotional purposes.

7. Right to Refuse Entry

   • The organisers reserve the right to refuse or withdraw entry to any participant whose behaviour is unsafe, unsportsmanlike, or inconsistent with the spirit of the event.

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