The best dog-friendly walks around Nelson & Tāhunanui

We've put together our top favourite dog-friendly walks around Nelson City and Tāhunanui.

Back Beach, Tāhunanui

This beach is a dog-friendly paradise in Tāhunanui Reserve, just a short drive from Nelson City. A local favourite!

Walking Dog on Beach Print Res taken by Oliver Weber credit www.nelsontasman.nz

Back Beach is off-leash at all times.

Hot tip:  Stop by Raglan Roast Tahunanui beforehand, and have a nosey around Moana SUP, paddleboarding specialists.

Are you visiting with the whole family? Make sure to take advantage of all the things to do around Tahunanui. There is a hydro slide, bumper boats, SUP and kayak rental, mini golf, a zoo, and more.

Grampians Tracks, The Grampians Reserve

Explore the dog-friendly Grampians Tracks for a scenic walk that both you and your pup will love. These well-maintained trails offer varying levels of difficulty amidst regenerating native, grassy scrubs and pine trees complementing mahoe, mamaku and tawa trees.

Grampians credit Nelson City Council 3

Dogs must be on a leash when stock is present. Read more and download the official brochure.

Hot tip: Refuel at Melrose Café with a coffee and their famous in-house-made cabinet sweets.

Maitai River Walkway

The Maitai River Walkway is a riverside shared pathway popular amongst day walkers, dog enthusiasts, city commuters, and cyclists alike.

Cycling Maitai River taken by Oliver Weber credit www2.nelsontasman.nz

Dogs must be on a leash at all times. Keep an eye on toxic algae during the summer months. Watch this video from Cawthron Institute to know what to look for.

Hot tip:  Pair this walk with the iconic Centre of New Zealand Walk on Botanical Hill at the start of the Maitai Valley.

Parker's Cove to Tāhunanui Reserve, Tāhunanui

Part of Tasman's Great Taste Trail, this 1.5km shared cycleway offers stunning views across Tasman Bay to the Western Ranges. It includes a stunning 270m long boardwalk.

Tasmans Great Taste Trail credit www.nelsontasman.nzDogs must be on a leash at all times.

Hot tip: Make it a loop! Walk either way and return via Back Beach.

Did we miss anything?

We will be continuously adding content. If we missed anything, please contact marketing@nelsontasman.nz.

Remember to be a responsible dog owner:

  • Keep control of your dog at all times.
  • Pick up after your dog - remember to carry doggie doo bags.
  • Keep in mind that some rules change during the summer months.
  • Keep an eye on toxic algae during the summer months. Watch this video from Cawthron Institute to know what to look for.
  • Keep wildlife safe by knowing where to look out for them while dog walking on beaches.

Share your furry adventures #dogsofnelsontasman

Dog exercise areas in Nelson Tasman

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