Christchurch's Small Dog Specialists
Kuri City is Christchurch's only daycare built exclusively for small breeds. We opened in 2017 with a clear purpose: to give small dogs a space genuinely built for them, run by people who understand them. That purpose has not changed.
The Numbers Behind the Name
Eight years of small-dog-only daycare in Christchurch.
Why We Built Kuri City for Small Dogs
Hayley and Jamie co-own Kuri City. They made a deliberate move to Christchurch to build a dog care business grounded in something they had not seen done properly anywhere in the city: a daycare built entirely around small breeds.
The decision came from a clear behavioural understanding. Small dogs see themselves as dogs, not as a size category. When they play with large dogs, they play like large dogs — and they get hurt. Or they develop poor behaviour patterns from the ongoing stress of those interactions. Small dogs also have fundamentally different energy levels and need spaces designed around those differences.
No one in Christchurch was offering that. Every other daycare mixed sizes. Kuri was built to fill that gap, and to do it properly: care and activities tailored entirely to small dogs, without compromise.
That is still the way we operate. No large dogs. Ever. Not as an exception, not briefly, not in a separate area. It is the commitment that makes Kuri City worth trusting.
Hayley holds certifications in Animal Care, Dog Psychology, and Pet First Aid. Jamie holds a Bachelor of Science in Zoology with a focus on physiology and behaviour, and previously worked at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. This is not a hobby business. It is built on genuine expertise and a genuine understanding of what small dogs need.
208 Five-Star Reviews
4.9 out of 5 on Google. Here is what Christchurch dog owners say.
"Kuri is truly amazing to our wee Olly when it comes to having a home away from home during the week. Friendliest staff, fantastic selection of raw food and would recommend Kuri to anyone."Google review
"Our dogs are always happy and excited when they know the car is near Kuri. They go in wagging and come out at the end of the day wagging."Google review
"Shannon loves the dogs and treats them like her own. Her understanding of their natures and requirements is truly amazing. My elderly Bichon comes home happy, smelling great and looking handsome."Google review
Everything Under One Roof
Five services, one location, one team you get to know.
Meet the Kuri City Team
Ten people, one shared focus: every dog in their care is safe, settled, and looked after.
Hayley
Managing Director and Co-ownerKia ora, I'm Hayley, the Managing Director of Kuri City, which I co-own with my husband Jamie. I'm a coffee enthusiast, beach lover, and proud mum to three kids and two dogs -Kaia, a Vizsla x and Jazz, a miniature fox terrier. I have a Certificate in Animal Care and Dog Psychology as well as Pet First Aid certification. I have a deep passion for understanding dogs, with a commitment to providing the best care possible..
Jamie
Co-owner and Kuri TikTok Star!Kia ora. Ko Jamie toku ingoa. Hayley and I decided it was a time for a sea change, moving to the beach and stepping into a business. I have lots in common with most dog people, my love of dogs started way back when... Since then, I've gone on to study Zoology with a focus on behavioural science and worked at Willowbank for a stint. As the keen runner in the family, I'm the driving force behind the dog walking adventures at Kuri.
Shannon McGarry
Groomer and TrainerHello, my name is Shannon McGarry. I've been working with dogs for over 26 years as a certified groomer and vet nurse. During my studies, I developed a keen interest in puppy development and canine behavior. After graduating, I pursued this passion and joined Kuri 7 years ago as a groomer and trainer. I have a great dane named Luci and am the Events Coordinator for the Canine Friends Pet Therapy organisation. Luci and I actively visit Burwood Hospital and Christchurch Women's Prison. My passion is helping people help dogs, and helping dogs help people.
Elodie
Dog WalkerHi, I’m Elodie, a passionate dog lover from France with a lifelong connection to animals. My love for dogs grew stronger nine years ago when I started training my first family’s dog, Marley, in dog education and agility in a club. Since then I'm commited to making every dog more happy and their needs fufilled. Dog walking is more than a job to me, I take the time to understand your dog’s demands, build trust, and make every walk safe, fun, and enriching. My goal is simple: a happy dog and complete peace of mind for you.
Jacquie
Daycare Team LeaderHi, I'm Jacquie a daycare team leader at Kuri. Fifteen months ago, I made the decision to change careers after 17 years as a florist. My passion for working with animals, especially dogs, led me to pursue this new path, and I have completely fallen in love with it. This journey has been incredibly rewarding, and every day that I get to work with dogs, I feel like I’m living my best life.
Becky
Daycare AssistantHi, I'm Becky a daycare assistant at Kuri. I started studying animal care straight out of high-school. I have worked with dogs for about 2 years. I love working with dogs because they're cheaper than therapy.
Lukkah
Daycare AssistantLukkah studied animal care and brings that foundation to the daycare floor every day. She is part of the consistent team your dog comes to know, and her calm handling style makes a genuine difference to dogs that are still finding their confidence in a group setting.
Nick
Daycare AssistantHi, my name is Nick, I volunteer at Dogwatch Sanctuary and I have just joined Kuri as a daycare assistant. I'm looking forward to meeting and caring for all your pets. I don't have any dogs of my own at the moment, so what better way to spend my days than looking after yours.
Emily
Admin and Customer ServiceHi, I’m Emily and I’m the admin and customer service person at Kuri. I’m originally from Auckland but moved to Christchurch 3 years ago and have loved it since! The only drawback is I miss my two family dogs - Blue a miniature schnauzer and Ginger a miniature long haired sausage dog - so I absolutely adore getting to see all the cute dogs that come in to Kuri!
Erika
ReceptionistHiya, My name is Erika I work as an admin and receptionist at Kuri Doggy Day Care, and it honestly feels like the perfect fit for me. I’ve always been a huge animal lover (I’m definitely the type to stop and say hi to every dog I see), so getting to be around them all day is something I genuinely love. I enjoy being the friendly face that welcomes both dogs and their humans, while keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes. Whether I’m organising bookings or sneaking in a few extra pats and cuddles, I really care about making sure every dog feels safe, happy, and loved while they’re with us.