Category: Helpful Hints

At the southern end of New Zealand’s North Island, Wellington is one of the most dog friendly cities in the country. Surrounded by natural beauty and full of energy, this vibrant capital makes both visitors and their dogs feel right at home.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Wellington offers plenty of dog friendly activities to enjoy together. From scenic parks and walking trails to beautiful beaches and welcoming cafés, there’s something for every dog and their owner. With pet friendly public transport available throughout the city, getting around with your dog is easy and hassle free. When it comes to travelling to or from Wellington, Jetpets is here to help ensure your pet’s journey is safe, comfortable and stress free from start to finish.

Where to Stay in Wellington with Your Dog

Finding a place to stay with your dog in Wellington is easy, with plenty of pet friendly accommodation options available across the city. From hotels to apartments and homes, there’s something to suit every style of travel.

QT Wellington is a popular hotel located right in the heart of the city, offering selected pet friendly rooms with plenty of space and comfort. They go the extra mile by providing dog bowls and even a special doggy minibar to help your pup feel at home. For a more homely experience, Airbnb offers a wide range of pet friendly properties throughout Wellington, including in suburbs close to dog parks and walking trails. Other great pet friendly accommodation options include U Hotel Group and The Intrepid Hotel, which welcome pets with advanced notice.

No matter where you choose to stay, it’s always important to check the pet policy before booking. Some places may have restrictions on size or breed, or may charge an additional cleaning fee. Planning ahead ensures you and your dog can settle in comfortably and fully enjoy all that Wellington has to offer.

Easy Ways to Travel Around Wellington with Pets

Wellington is known for allowing dogs and other pets to travel on all Metlink buses, trains and harbour ferries. This makes getting around the city with your dog simple and convenient, without needing a car. You can find more information about travelling with pets on public transport in Wellington by visiting the Metlink website.

To make the experience as smooth as possible, we recommend getting your dog used to travelling in a crate or carrier by practising short trips at home. Bringing along their favourite toy or blanket and offering treats can also help keep them calm and comfortable. It’s also best to avoid travelling during the hottest times of the day to keep your pet safe and cool. With a little preparation, public transport can be a stress free way for you and your dog to explore Wellington together.

Let Your Dog Run Free in These Parks

Wellington is full of parks where dogs can run off leash, giving your pup plenty of space to play, explore and socialise safely. Some of the top off-leash spots include Trelissick Park with its lush bush walks and creek, Queen Elizabeth Park which offers wide open spaces and coastal views, and Tawatawa Reserve, a favourite among locals for dog walking. For a nature-filled day trip, Kaitoke Regional Park is hard to beat, while Seton Nossiter Park provides large grassy areas perfect for energetic pups. Many of these parks also offer free dog waste bags, water taps and bowls, so you can relax and enjoy the outdoors without any hassle.

Wellington’s Top Beaches for Dogs

For dogs who love the water, Wellington has plenty of dog friendly beaches to explore. Lyall Bay Beach is a local favourite, with ample space for dogs to run and swim. Island Bay Beach and Houghton Bay Beach offer quieter spots with lovely scenery. Worser Bay Beach and Mākara Beach provide rugged and natural beach experiences for adventurous pups. Dogs are allowed on leash at Mount Victoria, which also offers spectacular views of the city and harbour. Oriental Bay Beach welcomes dogs only during certain times of the year, so it’s important to check signage before visiting. Whitireia Park and Charles Plimmer Park are other great coastal areas where dogs are welcome.

Walking Trails for You and Your Pup

If you enjoy hiking or walking with your dog, Wellington offers a variety of dog friendly trails. The Mount Kaukau summit walk via Khandallah Park loop is a popular choice, offering panoramic views after a moderately challenging climb. Te Ara o Whareroa is a beautiful coastal trail that’s flat and great for dogs who like a longer stroll. The Waikanae River Trail just north of Wellington provides a peaceful riverside walk suitable for dogs of all ages. Tawatawa Reserve also has walking tracks through native bushland that are perfect for exploring with your dog.

Dog Friendly Restaurants in Wellington

After an active day, you can relax with your dog at one of Wellington’s many dog friendly cafés and restaurants. Many eateries around the waterfront and inner city welcome dogs and provide water bowls, treats and shaded outdoor seating. Beach Babylon is well known for its dog menu and welcoming atmosphere. Goldings Free Dive is a relaxed bar that allows dogs inside and outside. BambuchiSan offers a dog friendly courtyard dining experience, while Queens Café provides excellent coffee and a pet friendly environment. These venues make it easy to enjoy great food and drinks without leaving your dog behind.

A Dog Friendly Day at the Harbourside Market

On Sundays, the Harbourside Market is a great place to visit with your dog on a lead. You can browse fresh local produce, artisan crafts and food stalls while enjoying the harbour views. The market is lively and dog friendly, but it’s a good idea to keep your dog close to avoid overwhelming them with crowds or food temptations.

Tips for a Smooth Trip with Your Dog

Travelling with your dog in Wellington is a great way to experience the city, especially with so many dog friendly parks, beaches, cafés and transport options to enjoy. With a little preparation, you can make the trip smooth and stress free for both you and your dog. Start by planning ahead and researching the best places to visit, so you know exactly where your dog will be welcome.

Pack all the essentials your dog might need, including food, water, bedding, toys and any medication. If you’re planning to use public transport, help your dog get used to their crate or carrier by practising at home. Bringing their favourite blanket or a few treats can help them feel relaxed and comfortable while travelling.

As you explore Wellington together, remember to follow local leash rules, clean up after your dog and avoid walking during the hottest times of the day. With the right planning and all that Wellington has to offer, you and your pup are set for a safe and enjoyable adventure.

How Jetpets Supports Your Pet Travel

At Jetpets, we specialise in safe, stress free pet travel whether you’re moving to Wellington, visiting for a holiday, or heading overseas. We offer door-to-door domestic and international pet travel and transport services, custom travel crates and expert advice to ensure your pet is comfortable and secure throughout their journey. Our experienced team takes care of everything from flight bookings to health and safety checks, making pet travel easier for you and safer for your furry friend. With Jetpets, your dog’s travel experience will be smooth and enjoyable, giving you peace of mind wherever your adventures take you.

Get Ready to Explore Wellington Together

Wellington is a city that truly embraces dog friendly travel. With its mix of scenic parks, coastal walks, welcoming cafés and easy public transport, it’s the perfect place to explore with your pup by your side. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the city together. Jetpets is here to help with all your pet travel needs, so getting to and around Wellington is simple and stress free. Grab the lead, pack your bags and get ready to make some unforgettable memories with your dog in one of New Zealand’s most pet friendly destinations.

Auckland is one of New Zealand’s most lively cities, offering the perfect setting for you and your furry friend to explore together. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Auckland has a wide range of dog-friendly activities, beaches, parks, and accommodation that ensure an enjoyable experience for both you and your pup.

Travelling in Auckland with your dog means finding the best places to enjoy together, from relaxing walks to fun beach days. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re after adventure or relaxation. Here’s a list of some of the best pet-friendly activities in Auckland!

Top Dog-Friendly Activities in Auckland

Scenic Dog Walks Around Auckland

Auckland is a great place for dog-friendly walks, with lots of parks and beautiful trails for you and your dog to discover. Whether you’re after a peaceful wander or a more exciting hike, there are plenty of options. Some great spots include the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, Cornwall Park, Coyle Park, and Ōrākei Basin Walkway.

Many parks in Auckland have specific off-leash areas where your pup can roam free. You can find a full list of dog-friendly parks on the Auckland Council website, where you can filter for parks with off-leash areas, making it easier to find the perfect spot for you and your furry friend!

If you want a beautiful view and a more picturesque path, consider hiking up Mount Eden or One Tree Hill with your dog—keep in mind, these options can be a bit more challenging, so be prepared for a good workout! Dogs are also welcome at the Auckland Botanic Gardens, an ideal spot to enjoy nature alongside your pup—just keep them on a leash!

Relax & Play at Dog-Friendly Beaches

Auckland’s beaches are perfect for dogs to run, play, and cool off in the water. Takapuna Beach is a favourite for pup owners, especially during the off-leash hours. Plus, there are dog-friendly cafes nearby, making it a great spot for a day out with your furry friend.

Another great beach is Karioitahi Beach, known for its unique black sand and beautiful sunsets. Dogs can enjoy the beach all year round—in summer, dogs are allowed off-leash from 5pm to 10am, but there are restrictions during the rest of the day.

Dog-Friendly Cafes and Shopping Spots

Auckland offers many cafes and shopping areas where dogs are welcome, so you can enjoy a coffee or shop while spending time with your dog. Ozone Coffee Roasters in Grey Lynn is a popular spot for breakfast and coffee, and they’re very dog-friendly. For food or drinks, head to The Paw Bar and Eatery in Parnell, a pet-friendly spot where you and your dog can hangout in a fun atmosphere.

For shopping, Eastridge Shopping Centre in Mission Bay is a great choice. Some shops and cafes allow dogs, and there are a few outdoor areas where you and your pooch can be together. The centre also has dog water stations around and plenty of places to keep your pup while you go shopping.

Pet-friendly Accommodation in Auckland

While not all hotels in New Zealand allow pets, Auckland offers plenty of dog-friendly places to stay. One great option is JetPark Hotels, which offers pet-friendly rooms and even a Pampered Pet Package that includes a dog bed, blanket, bowl, and a goodie bag with toys and treats. The hotel also has a green space where your dog can go and play.

For a more luxurious stay, QT Auckland has a Pup Yeah” package with dog bedding, a dog-friendly minibar, and an in-room doggy dining menu. Your dog will feel super spoilt!

There are many other pet-friendly accommodations, from luxury hotels to cozy Airbnbs, so you and your pal will be comfortable during your time in Auckland.

Dogs on Public Transport in Auckland

Auckland’s public transport is fortunately quite pet-friendly! Dogs on a leash and wearing an approved muzzle are welcome on trains and buses, as are small pets in carriers (as long as they fit on your lap). Pets can travel for free, and there’s a limit of one pet per passenger. Dogs are allowed on ferries, but it’s best to check with the ferry operator for their specific rules.

Travel Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday

Travelling with your dog takes a little extra planning, but with these tips, you can enjoy a fun and easy trip together:

Plan ahead: Research dog-friendly parks, beaches, cafes, and places to stay before you go so you know where your dog is welcome.

Pack the essentials: Bring your dog’s food, water, toys, and bedding to keep them comfortable on the go.

Respect the rules: Always check the dog policies at parks, beaches, and cafes to follow any leash or off-leash rules.

Auckland is one of the most dog-friendly cities in New Zealand, offering plenty of activities, beaches, cafes, as well as places to stay where dogs are welcome. With a little planning, you and your dog can enjoy everything the city has to offer, creating memories you’ll both treasure.

Jetpets, experts in domestic pet travel and international pet transport, can help you travel easily with your dog, whether you’re visiting Auckland or flying internationally. Looking to travel outside of Auckland with your pup as well? We’ve gathered our top tips for travelling with your dog in New Zealand, ensuring both you and your pup have a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Grab your dog’s leash and essentials, pack your bags, and leave the rest up to the team at Jetpets for your next pet travel trip in Auckland or wider NZ!

Jetpets Australia & New Zealand were privileged to be involved with the Regional Oceania IPATA Conference in Auckland.

This year’s conference brought together passionate industry leaders, government agencies, airlines and animal transportation professionals from around our region. The diverse range of insightful presentations, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities created an atmosphere of collaboration and shared knowledge. It was a fantastic opportunity for everyone involved to discuss new trends, exchange ideas, and strengthen relationships within the pet travel community.

Jetpets were very proud to showcase our New Zealand facilities and share our own experiences and expertise with our industry partners. At Jetpets, we are deeply committed to providing the best possible care for pets during their journeys. Being part of the IPATA Conference allowed us to demonstrate our dedication to the industry and continue learning from others who share the same passion for animal welfare.

A heartfelt thank you to our very own Montana Sheridan (Regional Director) and Jenny Wong French (Assistant Regional Director) for their time and dedication into planning this industry event. We also thank the attendees who made the conference so special. The connections made, ideas shared, and insights gained will continue to shape the future of the pet transportation industry.

Summer in New Zealand is the perfect time to explore the great outdoors, and what better way to enjoy it than with your furry friend by your side? With its stunning landscapes, pet-friendly destinations, and temperate climate, New Zealand offers countless opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re a Kiwi planning a local pet travel holiday or thinking of travelling with your pet from overseas to experience New Zealand’s beauty, these summer pet travel tips will help you make the most of your summer getaway in NZ!

Jetpets has years of experience providing exceptional local and overseas pet travel services in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and other areas in New Zealand. We’ve put together our top tips when visiting New Zealand with your furry companion.

Planning Your Trip

Travelling with dogs or pets requires extra preparation to ensure both you and your pal have a stress-free experience. A little research and forward planning can go a long way in making your trip enjoyable and safe.

Choosing pet-friendly locations

Start by finding pet-friendly travel destinations – including accommodations and recreational areas. A growing number of places around New Zealand cater to animal lovers, offering amenities to keep your pet comfortable. From pet-friendly hotels in urban hubs like Auckland and Wellington to charming lodges near Rotorua’s thermal parks, there are options for every travel style. For dining, look for cafés and restaurants with outdoor seating areas where pets are permitted. By taking care of this research in advance, you and your furry friends can relax on the road, knowing exactly where you can go!

Prepping for travel

Getting your pet used to travelling is key to a smooth journey. If your cat or dog associates car rides with trips to the vet, try introducing them to shorter, fun outings like a trip to the park to create positive associations. You can also make their travel space inviting by adding a blanket or toy they’re familiar with. If crate travel is necessary, ensure they are comfortable by gradually acclimatising them to it at home before your trip.

Pet-friendly activities

New Zealand’s national parks and beaches offer endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it’s essential to check local regulations before you head off. Some parks have restrictions on where dogs are allowed, and leashing is often required to protect wildlife, so pet etiquette is pretty important . Popular destinations like Mount Maunganui’s beach or Queenstown’s lakefront offer fantastic, pet-friendly experiences when rules are followed.

Heat Awareness

Summer temperatures in New Zealand can reach highs of 30ºC, making it vital to plan ahead for your pet’s comfort. Heat safety leads us to our next important part!

Staying Cool

Hot weather poses unique challenges for travelling pets, so understanding and mitigating risks is essential to their safety, comfort, and enjoyment. Here are our experts’ tips to help your pet stay safe and happy in the summer heat.

Temperature control

Unlike humans, pets struggle to cool themselves efficiently by sweating; their primary method of heat regulation is panting. For flat-faced breeds like pugs and bulldogs, this is even more difficult to regulate due to respiratory restriction. A healthy dog’s body temperature is around 38.5°C, and anything higher can lead to heat stress or heat stroke.

With this in mind, it’s important for their humans to take precautions to prevent their temperature from rising beyond a safe level. Be particularly cautious on days exceeding 25°C, as anything above this can quickly become dangerous. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all rule for what temperature is safe for dogs, as age, health, and coat type can also affect heat tolerance. The only way to keep your pet safe is to monitor them closely and stay vigilant for signs of heat stress like drooling, discoloured gums, and excessive panting.

Sun cream and skin care

Did you know that pets can get sunburnt too? Especially those with light-coloured fur or exposed skin. Grooming your pet to remove excess fur can help keep them cooler, but be cautious not to shave them too short as some fur offers protection from UV rays. To increase their protection from the sun, use pet-safe sunscreen, applying it every 3-4 hours on areas like the nose and ears. Avoid human sunscreens that contain zinc oxide and other ingredients that can be toxic to pets.

The 5-second rule

A simple way to check if surfaces are too hot for your pet’s paws is the 5-second rule. Place the back of your hand on the ground; if it’s too hot to hold for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for your pet to walk on. If you still need to get around outside during peak temperatures, stick to grassy or shaded areas to protect sensitive paw pads.

Exercise times

Plan exercise sessions for early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. Avoid vigorous activities like running or chasing balls during the day, and stick to water activities like pool or beach trips where your pup can cool down. This way, your pet can still enjoy their daily dose of movement without risking overheating. Since most cats aren’t too fond of water, we suggest leaving them safely indoors with plenty of shade and access to drinking water.

Cool tricks

Help your pet stay cool with some simple tricks. Add ice cubes to their water bowl or create frozen treats by filling a Kong toy with peanut butter or wet food and freezing it. Cooling pads are another excellent way to keep your pet comfortable, as they absorb body heat and provide relief from high temperatures.

The Best For Your Pet

New Zealand’s summer offers unparalleled adventures for you and your pet, but keeping their safety and comfort a priority is crucial. Always provide access to shade and fresh water, and plan your activities around the weather to ensure a happy, healthy trip for everyone.

For stress-free travel, take a look at Jetpet’s international pet travel services to ensure your furry friend is ready for the holiday of a lifetime, otherwise get in touch to speak with someone directly. With proper preparation, your summer adventures in New Zealand can be memorable for all the right reasons.

To-dos before you travel

When travelling with your pooch, you’ll need to take care of their pre-holiday checklist as well as your own. This includes making sure they’re up-to-date with their vaccinations and health checks, and have any documentation they may need for travel. If you’re unsure what to look for, then the Jetpets team can help you out.

Packing for your pup is another important preflight to-do. First up, you’ll want to stock up on their favourite treats and food to eat while they’re away from home. Bowls and toys are also important to bring along, as being in unfamiliar places can be stressful for dogs, and having home comforts can help to keep them calm.

Getting around

If you’re travelling New Zealand by car, then be aware of New Zealand’s laws regarding pets in vehicles. These are in place for their comfort and safety, as well as those of other road users, so sticking to them is paramount. When it comes to public transport, on the other hand, the rules can change depending on your location. In Auckland, for example, domesticated animals are allowed on public transport, but there may be some restrictions depending on the service.

Whatever the weather

Dogs can’t directly tell you when they’re too hot or too cold, so it’s up to you to be mindful of the inside and outside temperatures on their behalf.

While 25° might seem like a beautiful summer’s day to you, for your dog, it’s enough to burn their paws when they walk outside. During seasonal peaks and high heats while you travel, your dog will rely on you to keep them safe and comfortable. One way to do this is to make sure they have access to water and shade, but this can be tricky if you’re actively on the move. Cooling ice pads are perfect for use on the road, as they work by absorbing body heat without the need for refrigeration or freezing.

Winter getaways across the Land of the Long White Cloud can get pretty chilly, and even with fur to keep them somewhat warm, your travel pal will likely need more help. Having blankets to hand is a quick fix to this when you’re travelling, particularly during the colder months when temperatures below 7° can pose a threat to some breeds.

Whether you’re at home, on a  holiday or have made the big move to NZ, following pet etiquette is a must!  Here are some interesting facts you may not know.

Leash laws

New Zealand has strict laws and regulations that dog owners must follow, and councils around the country also implement their own additional rules. For your dog’s safety, it’s crucial that you familiarise yourself with the guidelines of each location you visit, as these can vary from place to place. At a minimum, you should keep your dog leashed, or be carrying the leash with you at all times. Remember that abiding by these regulations is necessary to protect yourself and other animals, as well as being crucial for the local environment and wildlife.

Cleaning up

From Auckland to Wellington, Hutt, and around the country, picking up poo is the responsibility of the dog owner. If you fail to clean up after your pup, you can face fines of hundreds of dollars, so don’t leave your holiday accommodation without dog waste bags!

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!

As we approach the summer season most of us start to think of warmer weather, extended holidays, spending time with family over Christmas and having fun at our favourite park, beach or holiday venue. Pets are no different!

Our fur babies too love time with their parent’s and will be looking forward to spending more time with you whilst you have been back at work more since our lockdown restrictions have eased across the nation.

One of our resident vets Dr Kathy Johnson explains some of the key things to prepare your fur baby for when heading into the summer season.

“It is important that if you are planning to travel over the summer season and looking to place your pets in boarding for any period of time that their vaccinations are up to date. All boarding facilities will require that your dogs have C5 and cats have F3 vaccinations which are valid.

Maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle during summer also means your fur babies should have plenty of water for those hotter days, walking them earlier or later in the day and if they like the water, a swim in the pool or at the beach will definitely make them feel more comfortable during those hot summer days.”

Jetpets also takes special care of your fur babies over the summer season. We always look for early morning and late evening domestic flights across NZ to avoid the hottest parts of the day and choose the most direct flight available to minimise time spent travelling. Our purpose built fleet ensures your fur baby is pampered from start to finish.

If you are looking to travel over the summer season, please complete our online request a quote form.