In a competition run on Council’s Facebook page, which received nearly 200 entries, Waimakariri residents were asked to vote for their favourite out of four finalists.

By Sunday night, “Tango” had secured the lead, 70 votes ahead of a French Bulldog from Kaiapoi.

It was clear from Tango’s online supporters that his photogenic nature helped him secure the win.

His owner, Penny Harnett, said Tango was just a real showman.

“When we got him from Merthyr Kennels, we just got him as a pet, he was not to be shown or anything. Then we took him to a ‘fun show’, and he was in his element. It’s a shame he wasn’t a show dog because he would’ve been a real show off.

“He’s got no concept that someone might not like him. He’s just a really sunny natured little dog.”

Tango was presented his award on Tuesday morning by Mayor Dan Gordon, who couldn’t resist a cuddle!

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Dog registration reminder

There are more than 14,000 dogs registered to the Waimakariri District Council.

Council’s Environmental Services Manager, Billy Charlton said it’s important that owners renew their dog registration each year.

“Not only is it a requirement of the Dog Control Act, but it contributes all the funding to the Animal Management team within Council’s Environmental Services Unit, which helps to keep public safe.

“It funds running of the shelter, patrols of reserves for good dog control compliance and barking (noise) complaints, as well as education in schools, and reuniting dogs with their owners when the dog has decided a ‘trip on out of there’ is a good idea.”

Owners are advised to register their dogs by 31 July, before the fee increases.

Ways to pay your dog registration:

• Pay online
• Send the registration form and payment to Waimakariri District Council, Private Bag 1005, Rangiora 7440
• Pay by internet banking
• Visit a service centre at Rangiora, Oxford or Kaiapoi.