
Summer’s here, and it’s the perfect time to enjoy New Zealand’s stunning scenery with your dog.
From Auckland to Queenstown, from road trips to beach days, these are the very best dog-friendly places and open spaces to spend time with your dog this summer.
Note: Dogs are not allowed in any New Zealand national parks or wildlife reserves to protect vulnerable species. Many beaches and parks have varying off-leash restrictions during summer. Always check the regulations on the local council website to see what’s allowed – and what’s not.
Dog-Friendly Places in Auckland
1. Get sandy at Murawai Beach or Takapuna Beach
Venture out roughly 45 minutes from Auckland’s CBD and you’ll stumble upon a stunning, black-sand beach: Murawai Beach.
There is an off-leash exercise area where dogs can roam between the hours of 7pm and 9am during summer, and plenty of trails nearby to spend the rest of the day on!
Or if you want somewhere closer to the CBD, stick to Takapuna Beach. A favourite for dog families, it has off-leash hours between 5pm and 10am in the summer.
With a kid’s playground and plenty of eateries nearby, this should be the destination for your next family day out. Just make sure to pick up after both you and your dog!
2. Grab a meal at The Paw Bar & Eatery
A multi-cuisine menu designed for both you and your dog. Board games. Cocktails. Quiz nights and live entertainment.
Yep, The Paw Bar & Eatery has it all. Because they know that having a good time out doesn’t have to mean leaving your pet at home.
With a relaxed vibe and plenty of outdoor seating, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a long walk or shopping spree.
Don’t forget to snap a picture of your furry companion enjoying their meal!
3. Embrace nature (and fitness!) at Craigavon Park
Nestled in the heart of Te Atatū South, Craigavon Park is the perfect blend of nature, fitness and fun.
This spacious park features a dog agility course that can keep your dog entertained for hours (or at least for just a few hops and jumps).
Take a stroll along the walking tracks that wind through lush greenery or take a break at the playground where your kids can run wild.
With plenty of amenities like picnic area, barbecues and toilets, this park is a great spot to spend an entire day outdoors.

Dog-Friendly Places in Wellington
1. Follow the Waikanae River Trail
Follow the highs and lows, the bushes and trees of the Waikanae River Trail. Start the trail at Oteihanda Domain on Makora Road, approximately one hour drive north of Wellington.
You can walk it as a full loop, and there are plenty of safe swimming areas along the way, so bring your bathers!
On and off-leash signs are posted along the trail. Walkers, cyclists and horse riders share the trail – so be considerate of others, and mindful of where your dog is exploring.
2. Roam Lyall Bay Beach
Just a short drive from Wellington’s city centre, we can't forget to highlight the beauty of Lyall Bay Beach
Dogs are not allowed at the western end of the beach. But at the eastern end? It’s a brilliantly social, off-lead spot to let them run free, meet other dogs, and feel the sand between their paws.
Enjoy a morning splash in the sea or a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. And when you’re ready to take a break, there are cafés nearby to grab a bite to eat while your dog rests in the sun.
3. Spoil your pup at Beach Babylon
Speaking of a bite to eat, Beach Babylon is a retro beachside café with a dog-specific menu that’s sure to do the trick.
Think meat platters and refreshing doggy drinks – perfect for your pup to enjoy while you kick back with your own drink.
It’s a relaxed spot right by the beach, so you can enjoy the coastal vibes with your dog by your side.

Dog-Friendly Places in Christchurch
1. Explore historic sites at Halswell Quarry
Not your typical park, Halswell Quarry offers trails with panoramic views of Christchurch, and historic buildings and sites – like the oldest continually operated quarry in Australasia!
With your dog on leash, you could opt for the Quarry Rim Track, a 2-km (40-minute) circuit that rewards you with beautiful nature views. Or there is an unfenced dog exercise park for your dog to be off leash (but under control).
It’s a great spot to mix a bit of history and adventure, whether you’re exploring the scenic trails or letting your dog burn off energy in the exercise park.
2. Run free at The Groynes
The Groynes is a must visit spot if you’re looking for an expansive off-leash exercise park for your dog to run to their heart’s content.
The park feels boundless, with room for every dog to enjoy, it’s always buzzing with plenty of other furry friends for your pup to socialise with.
Dog obstacle courses are dotted around the sprawling grounds, and there’s a nearby river perfect for them to have a refreshing splash.
What more could a dog want?!
3. Enjoy vegan or gluten-free food at Barefoot Eatery
Barefoot Eatery is the perfect spot for health-conscious foodies who want to bring their dogs along for the experience.
Customers rave about the generous portions and aesthetic food presentation. And with a menu full of organic, vegan, and gluten-free options, it’s a haven for nourishing bites that don’t compromise on flavour.
The leafy courtyard creates a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where your dog can sit happily at your feet as you enjoy your meal.

Dog-Friendly Places in Queenstown
1. Hike around Bob's Cove
For a scenic adventure with your dog, head to Bob’s Cove.
You’ve got options depending on how much time you’ve got. A quick 20-minute walk will take you to the main cove, or if you’re up for a bit more, the 3-km full loop (roughly 1.5 hours return) leads to a lookout with stunning views and a lovely picnic spot.
Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit, as it’s the perfect place for a refreshing dip – and your dog can join in for a splash too. However, dogs are required to stay on-leash while on the trail.
2. Grab a drink at Beech Tree
Beech Tree – located on Beach Street, right in the heart of Queenstown – is a craft beer bar that’s as dog friendly as they come.
While you sip on one of their 26 rotating and carefully selected local brews, your dog can savour their own ‘dog beer’ and a burger!
Mouth-watering bites, ribs, burgers, beer snacks and vegan options will keep your whole family satisfied.
Make sure to snap a polaroid of your dog to add to their shared wall!
3. Loop through Queenstown Gardens
Just a stone’s throw from Queenstown’s bustling town centre, the Queenstown Gardens offer a serene escape from the crowds for both you and your dog.
Taking you through a lush botanic garden right on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, the easy and wheelchair-friendly 1.9-km track around the park offers beautiful views.
Dogs must be on leash on this path.
Pack a picnic or take a break on one of the benches – it’s a simple, peaceful way to spend time outdoors with your dog.

Things to remember this summer:
- Check the rules before you go – various parts of beaches and parks may have different restrictions.
- Keep a leash handy, as off-leash and on-leash hours often change depending on the season and time of day.
- Look out for toxic creatures. Bluebottles, pufferfish, sea slugs and katipō spiders can be harmful to your dog.
- Bring along plenty of water, food and treats. It can get hot for your pups!
- Keep away from coastal animals and wildlife.
- And of course, always pick up your dog’s poo.
Ready for a beachy adventure? Check out more tips on bringing your dog to the beach safely.