Kawakawa Bark in the Park a great success

Bark in the Park Bay of Islands.

The organisers of Saturday's Bark in the Park in Kawakawa had their leashes crossed that people and their canine companions would turn out in droves. And they did.

"What an amazing day, way better than we hoped," Leonie Exel said.

Bark in the Park Bay of Islands 2019

"More than 700 people passed through, and best of all they came with their dogs, at least 250 pooches, which is amazing.

"Thanks to all of you for coming, the stallholders, the people who did demonstrations, our team of volunteers, every business that donated prizes or things for our sausage sizzle. Such an amazing community we live in."

Seven year old Harry the Wolf Hound and his owner Marie Swanson.

The day, which featured a puparazzi competition, displays by police and conservation dogs, agility and obedience demonstrations, and a canine cool-off zone with paddling pools and dog ice blocks, raised more than $3300 for Bay of Islands Animal Rescue, which would enable Summer Johnson to keep on doing what she did best, saving impounded pups.

Lulah appears less than enthusiastic about her unicorn costume for Saturday's dog fancy dress contest, part of the inaugural Bark in the Park in Kawakawa. Photo / Laura Jerome

"See you next year for bigger and better," Leonie added.