Look-alike pup takes his lead from first Bernie
A 13-week-old bernese mountain dog puppy has some big shoes to fill at Wellington’s Oriental Bay.
It’s been almost three years since his predecessor Bernie died, sparking an outpouring of tributes from upset locals.
Bernie was the face of Bernie’s on the Bay cafe near Freyberg Pool on Oriental Parade.
The famous shop dog made a name for himself in Wellington, and had even featured in a book on shop dogs.
He was a common sight for those out and about in the area.
Bernie was nearly 11 when he died after a short illness. Median life expectancy for his breed is about 7.
Strolling down Oriental Parade you’d be forgiven for doing a double take at the new kid on the block — a pup with a striking similarity to Bernie.
“People say he’s exactly the same dog as Bernie,” owner Nick Ryan said.
“I think I’ve settled on the name El Bernardo so I can still use Bernie for short but he’s still got his own identity.”
El Bernardo is settling in well to life on Oriental Parade and Wellingtonians appear thrilled to have him.
“He’s just full of love and light,” Ryan said.
“Some people have said he brings so much joy, which is what Bernie did, and lots of people have said ‘oh my god, you’ve made my day’.”
El Bernardo is also known to frequent the city’s music scene and is happy enough sauntering around Havana Bar at 2am.
The playful puppy is already quite the jet-setter, spending Christmas Day in Auckland and New Year’s Eve in Hawke’s Bay.
Ryan also has plans to take him on a sailing trip to Europe.
The itinerary will include a visit to Bern in Switzerland, where the breed originated.
Bernie never got a chance to visit Europe, but his ashes were scattered in Bern.
When Bernie passed, tributes flowed.
Some people have said he brings so much joy, which is what Bernie did. Owner Nick Ryan
Former mayor Justin Lester tweeted about his death, saying “saddened to hear the news this morning that Bernie, Oriental Parade’s favourite resident, has crossed the Rainbow Bridge”.
Wellingtonians posted to social media pictures and memories of the “true Wellington icon”.
When asked whether El Bernardo had big shoes to fill, Ryan replied “I think he’s already filled them, actually”.