MPs shocked by fatal Aranui dog attack

The local MP says he was distressed to hear that a young child had died after a dog attack in the Christchurch suburb of Aranui.

Police found the child in a critical condition after being called to a house on Basingstoke Street just before 5pm on Friday. They later died at the scene.

MP for the Christchurch East electorate, Reuben Davidson, said it was a tragedy for the family and the wider community.

Local Burwood Ward councillor Kelly Barber said her first thoughts were with the child's family.

"It's a very sad situation, and my first thoughts were with the family and how devastated they must be at the loss of their child. I also hope there is something we can learn from the ongoing police investigation that reduces the likelihood of this ever happening again," she said.

Police investigators have left the scene.

The dog, which lived at the house, was removed by Animal Control, and police were speaking with the residents and providing support.

"Upon arrival, emergency services located a young child in a critical condition," Senior Sergeant Dan Overend said.

"Despite the immediate efforts of first responders and a member of the household, the child sadly died at the scene."

Overend said the dog involved was known to the occupants of the address and lived at the property.

"Occupants of the address are assisting police with enquiries."

St John said two ambulances, two rapid response units and one operations manager attended.

Govt weighs stronger dog control penalties, greater council powers

Local Government Minister Simon Watts said the Government was reviewing the Dog Control Act to ensure councils had the tools to manage dangerous dogs and protect communities.

"The news of this dog attack is devastating, and my thoughts are with the child's family, and everyone affected," he said.

"Every New Zealander should be able to feel safe in their community and not fear being attacked by a dangerous and uncontrolled dog."

Watts said stronger penalties and greater powers for council officers were among the options being considered as part of the review.

He said the Government had also released updated Dog Control and Enforcement Guidelines, giving councils clearer and more consistent guidance under the current framework.

Officials were working with councils, animal control officers and other stakeholders to identify further changes that might be needed, he said.

Many people in the area told RNZ they were unaware of the tragedy until they heard about it on the news on Saturday.