Police have vowed to impound or destroy horses and stock found grazing at the roadside in the Taupo and Ruapehu districts.
A hardline policy on roaming and loose animals is to take effect after the councils in the two areas consulted transport officials.
Taupo District Council says unrestrained animals that pose a threat to public safety will be destroyed immediately, while others will be impounded at the owner's expense.
Police in Turangi say tethered animals are frequently found grazing on fire breaks and verges, while unrestrained animals have been responsible for many road accidents in recent years.
They say irresponsible owners may face manslaughter charges in the event of a fatal accident.
