Are you getting ready to set off on an adventure across Aotearoa (New Zealand) with your furry friend in tow? Travelling New Zealand with your dog can be an amazing experience, just as long as you know the ins and outs of pet-friendly travel! From coastal road trips to countryside escapes, we’ve got the ultimate guide to make you and your pet’s holiday a walk in the park.
Here, we’ll share our top dog-friendly destinations across New Zealand’s North and South Islands.
The Ultimate Travel Companion
Owning a dog comes with a range of proven health benefits, and when you travel with your pooch, you’ll likely uncover even more.
As well as being a built-in bff, your dog will also provide you with some good motivation to get out and about, particularly during New Zealand’s cold or rainy spells. On average, dog owners exercise more than non-dog owners, and your pal needs fresh air and a run around come rain or shine, encouraging you to get outdoors, too. Taking a trip to a local dog park on your travels also creates a great opportunity for you to strike up conversation with the locals, so it’s a win-win for you and your pooch.
Dog-Friendly Destinations in New Zealand
New Zealand’s 13 national parks are off limits to dogs, as are nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries, and owners can face large fines for breaking these rules as part of the Dog Control Act. If you check out the Department of Conservation website, though, you’ll find plenty of places where you can set up camp with your furry friend.
As for spots where your dog is more than welcome, here are a few of our top picks around the country!
North Island
Auckland
Cornwall park has off-leash areas that span far and wide, giving your dog plenty of space to run around just 15 minutes by car from the CDB. A stone’s throw from the city, this spot is immersed in nature, and even offers sheep-spotting experiences (which your dog must be leashed for!)
If the coast is more your style, then head over to Mission Bay. Here, your pup can frolic off-leash before 10am and after 5pm while you sit back and relax at a waterfront cafe or stroll the scenic walkway.
Waiheke Island
For a true island getaway, hop on the ferry to Waiheke Island. Your dog can make the crossing for free, and once you arrive, can enjoy all the perks of island life! This dog-friendly utopia has plenty for everyone to enjoy, from restaurants, cafes, and accommodation to winery tours that welcome your pal along for the experience.
Rotorua
With hiking, camping, and kayaking opportunities, Rotorua is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. The small city is widely dog-friendly, so you’ll be sure to find experiences you can take your pooch along to. If you’re visiting during the transitional months, be sure to make some time for a visit to Centennial Park which is ripe with cherry blossoms in spring and dressed in fall colours throughout autumn.
South Island
Christchurch
Jump into the off-leash paradise that is Bottle Lake Forest, with more than 1,000 hectares of open space. This spot has well-marked trails for you to explore and mountain bike through, so you can embrace that kiwi sense of adventure!
Lake Wanaka
With waterfront views, rolling mountains, and open space as far as the eye can see, Wanaka is a sight to behold for anyone who finds peace and joy in nature. While your furry friend may not have the same appreciation for the scenery, there’s no doubt they’ll revel in the opportunity to run free. To pump a sweat, head 24 metres up the Mount Iron Track and take in the view from the top.
Dunedin
Situated on the south-east coast of South Island New Zealand, Dunedin is a university town with a lot to offer. For dog owners specifically, there are safe swimming beaches and off-leash areas that welcome pets, as well as a local dog community if you feel like making friends.
Planning Your Trip
For international pet travel or domestic pet transportation, Jetpets is your go-to hub of information and services. When it comes to travelling this breathtaking country with your furry friend, we’re here to help, so contact us to start planning the trip of a lifetime!