Taking your pup for a walk is all very well until you realise you’re in a park that’s a no-go for pooches. Talk about barking up the wrong tree. Luckily, there are a whole lot of dog-friendly walks in the North and South island so you can waltz along to your heart’s content, your fur baby by your side. Better still, pick a prime location and make it an adorably doggy day out with a pack of pups. Best Instagram story yet? 100%. And for more dog-friendly walks across Aotearoa be sure to check out this great resource.
Here are the best dog-friendly walks in New Zealand.
The Best Dog-Friendly Walks In The North Island
Maungauika North Head Historic Walk
Tāmaki Makaurau, 1km / 1hr one way
Named after a young relative of Māori voyager Toi-te-huatahi, Maungauika is, hands down, one of the best dog-friendly walks in the North Island. Choose from three different tracks—a coastal, tunnels or summit loop—or do all three to get the heart pumping. With views of the sparkling Waitematā and old defence remains to poke around, this walk is as intriguing as it is gorgeous.
Eastern Walkway
Pōneke, 2.59km / 1.5hr
Another of the best dog walks in the North Island is Eastern Walkway, a popular canine route in Aotearoa’s capital. The point-to-point pathway features sweeping views over the south coast of Miramar Peninsula, a native bush track and a series of great side trips like a climb to Ataturk Memorial, a visit to Breaker Bay’s Hole in the Rock, or a cheeky cafe stop in Seatoun Village for a well-deserved coffee.
Rangatira Point Track
Taupō, 3km / 1.5hr
For a light, family-friendly saunter with the hound in tow, head to Rangatira Point Track. This dog-friendly walk’s an utter delight, taking you through native bush and providing many an opportunity to soak up some stellar views at the lake’s edge. It’s also peppered with great spots for picnics, fishing, a refreshing dip and, of course, an exciting game of fetch.
Huatoki Walkway
Taranaki, 4.4km / 1.5hr
The meandering Huatoki stream is your guide in this great dog-friendly walk. Connecting New Plymouth’s Coastal Walkway to Tupari Reserve, your fur baby will get to dart around the city’s famed green spaces like the Sir Victor Davies Park and Huatoki Domain. Opt for a side trip to the top of Marshland Hill to treat your ears to Aoteaora’s only working carillon, an intriguing instrument that combines a keyboard and a series of bells, and sounds on the hour from 9am-5pm.
Lake Ngaroto
Waikato, 5.6km / 1.5hr / leash
Lush wetlands, farmland and native bush weave around a lake circuit at Lake Ngaroto. Mostly flat, it makes for a great dog walk, especially if you’re into ecology or bird-watching. The loop track has a picnic area and playground too, that kids will love making this one of the best family-friendly dog walks.
The Best Dog-Friendly Walks In The South Island
Historic Haast to Paringa Cattle Track
West Coast, 33.19km / 3 days
For the more intrepid pup-and-hiker duo, the Historic Haast to Paringa Cattle Track isn’t messing around. Built in 1875 by farmers the three-day track is your next-level walking experience with huts to stay in along the way. And yes, you absolutely can walk your dog there, you just need to get them a DOC pass. Camping with your canine? Cute.
Foveaux Walkway
Southland, 7.8km / 2hr return
With a view of the Dog Island lighthouse (we’re not even kidding) it’d practically be rude not to take your doggo on a stroll along Foveaux Walkway. The well-paved point-to-point track makes for easy walking along the Motupohue/Bluff coastline and features views of Ruapuku Island and mighty Rakiura.
Long Beach Walk
Otago, 7km / 1.5hr
We’re pretty sure if your pooch was to dream up their ideal walk, it’d be this one. Long Beach is a 7km loop of sandy white unadulterated adventure, complete with caves and rock climbing areas to fossick in along the way. If the stars align your pup might even discover a rotten fish carcass to proudly present to you. And when you’re done with walking there’s a lovely picnic area where the two of you can kick back and relax.
Barnicoat Walkway
Nelson, 6km / 3hr / leash
For a wander with a side of forest bathing, look no further than Barnicoat Walkway. Both a walking and mountain biking track, the mix of terrains in this pine forest loop, complete with a liberal sprinkling of wickedly steep sections, will give your mutt (and you) a great workout. Take a moment at the top to drink in the spectacular views of Mt Richmond Forest and Tasman Bay.
Otago Central Rail Trail
Otago, 150km / varies
Yep, your well-behaved pup can experience the famed Otago Rail Trail, parts of it anyway. Where dogs are allowed they'll need to be on a short leash as the trail traverses through farmland. Given the trail’s popularity with hikers, mountain bikers and horse riders though we’d recommend this gig for chilled-out doggos only.
Mahi done and it’s time for the treats? Park your pooch at one of the best dog-friendly restaurants and bars in Auckland and treat yo’selves.
Image credit: Blue Bird, Helena Lopes, Wolf Art.