Hi Alan
Welcome to the site. I haven't seen the latest RJ, but it is good to know this site is getting a mention.
Dog collars incorporating a device designed to give an electric shock are deemed prohibited imports under the CUSTOMS (PROHIBITED IMPORTS) REGULATIONS 1956 - SCHEDULE 2 (Goods the importation of which is prohibited unless the permission in writing of the Minister or an authorised person has been granted). The relevant bit of the Regulations is on the
Australasian Legal Information Institute website (scroll down to item 10).
However I understand that there are companies that have imported parts for collars into Australia and assembled them here. Their use is then regulated by State and Territory animal welfare legislation. I believe that the use of electronic collars is allowed in some states.
What is the legal situation with using collars across in NZ?
Cheers, Jason.