South Island · region

Dog-friendly tracks in Canterbury

Canterbury has 376 dog-friendly tracks mapped and 162 with water on the route, around Christchurch, Twizel and Oxford. The top-rated is Awaroa/Godley Head Loop Track near Christchurch.

376 tracks54 where they can run162 with water on the route10 DOC campsites

Easy 155Moderate 127Hard 78Expert 16

Explore Canterbury on the map

The complete list

All 376 tracks in Canterbury

Sorted by rating. Every entry opens its full trail sheet with the elevation profile, dog verdict and nearest places to stay. To filter and explore interactively, use the map above.

Awaroa/Godley Head Loop Track

ModerateChristchurch

9.0 km↑254 m2.5–3 hr★4.8 rating

Swim spotShade

Castle Hill Peak Track

ExpertSheffield

12 km↑1237 m★4.8 rating

Godley Head Out-and-Back from Taylors Mistake

ModerateChristchurch

8.4 km↑221 m2–2.5 hr★4.7 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Benmore Peninsula Loop

ModerateŌtematatā

4.0 km↑166 m1–1.5 hr★4.7 rating

Swim spot

Godley Head Walkway and Taylors Mistake Loop

ModerateChristchurch

9.8 km↑293 m3–3.5 hr★4.7 rating

Swim spotShade

Coopers Knob from the Sign of the Bellbird

ModerateLyttelton

7.6 km↑268 m★4.7 rating

Shade

Taylors Mistake to Sumner Beach Coastal Walk

HardChristchurch

8.9 km↑326 m3.5–4 hr★4.7 rating

Swim spotSealed underfoot

Taylors Mistake to Nicholson Park via Taylors Mistake Track

HardChristchurch

5.5 km↑264 m2.5–3 hr★4.7 rating

Swim spot

Head to Head Coastal Cliffs Walkway

ModerateLyttelton

8.2 km↑123 m2.5–3 hr★4.7 rating

Swim spotShade

Mount Grey and Maukatere Loop

HardAmberley

14 km↑743 m★4.7 rating

Swim spotShade

Mount Cloudsley Summit from Castle Hill Village

ExpertSheffield

13 km↑1340 m★4.7 rating

Swim spot

Harry Ell Walkway

EasyChristchurch

4.5 km↑102 m1–1.5 hr★4.6 rating

Shade

Rapaki Track

ModerateLyttelton

7.1 km↑263 m2–2.5 hr★4.6 rating

Crater Rim Walkway: Godley Head to Breeze Col

ModerateChristchurch

3.5 km↑83 m1–1.5 hr★4.8 rating

Lyttleton to Christchurch Gondola via Bridle Track

HardChristchurch

6.0 km↑413 m2.5–3 hr★4.7 rating

Barnett Park Cave Loop

ModerateChristchurch

3.9 km↑159 m1–1.5 hr★4.6 rating

Conical Hill Loop Track

ModerateHanmer Springs

3.1 km↑150 m1–1.5 hr★4.6 rating

ShadeGood with kids

Bridle Path Walk to Summit Road Viewpoint

ModerateChristchurch

2.9 km↑268 m1.5–2 hr★4.6 rating

Old Halswell Quarry Loop

ModerateChristchurch

1.8 km↑56 m0.5–1 hr★4.6 rating

Good with kids

Hagley Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

5.8 km↑0 m1–1.5 hr★4.6 rating

Swim spotShadeSealed underfootGood with kidsPram friendly

Dog Stream Waterfall via Waterfall Track

ModerateHanmer Springs

4.3 km↑352 m2–2.5 hr★4.6 rating

Swim spotShade

Mount Grey From Lake Janet

HardAmberley

8.7 km↑515 m3.5–4 hr★4.6 rating

Shade

Cass Bay and Corsair Bay Coast Track

EasyLyttelton

5.9 km↑200 m1.5–2 hr★4.6 rating

Swim spotShade

Trig M Track

HardSheffield

6.8 km↑460 m3–3.5 hr★4.6 rating

Swim spot

Mount Pleasant Loop from Lyttelton

ModerateLyttelton

6.8 km↑403 m2.5–3 hr★4.6 rating

Christchurch Coastal Pathway

EasyChristchurch

14 km↑42 m3–3.5 hr★4.6 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kidsPram friendly

Greta Track

HardTwizel

17 km↑913 m★4.6 rating

Swim spot

Newtons Waterfall Walk

ModerateAkaroa

0.6 km↑36 mabout 14 min★4.7 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Helicopter Hill Track

HardSheffield

5.6 km↑448 m★4.6 rating

Shade

Governors Bay Heritage Trail

EasyLyttelton

8.0 km↑86 m2–2.5 hr★4.6 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Lake Janet to Mount Grey Lookout

ModerateAmberley

5.0 km↑343 m2–2.5 hr★4.7 rating

Swim spotShade

Mount Barrosa Track

HardAshburton

6.8 km↑815 m4–4.5 hr★4.6 rating

Mount Benmore Peninsula Track

ModerateŌtematatā

4.0 km↑167 m1–1.5 hr★4.8 rating

Swim spotShade

McHughs Forest Park Loop Track

EasyDarfield

4.8 km↑9 m1–1.5 hr★4.6 rating

ShadeGood with kids

Christchurch 360 Trail: Godley Cliffs

HardChristchurch

17 km↑454 m6–6.5 hr★4.7 rating

Swim spotShade

Te Kuru Wetlands Loop

ModerateChristchurch

4.5 km↑10 m1–1.5 hr★4.7 rating

Swim spotShade

Mount Isobel via Waterfall Track

HardHanmer Springs

8.9 km↑831 m★4.6 rating

Swim spotShade

Mount Isobel via Jacks Pass Track

HardHanmer Springs

6.3 km↑483 m3–3.5 hr★4.6 rating

Gorge Track Loop

ModerateChristchurch

1.6 km↑89 m★4.6 rating

Swim spotShade

Coopers Creek Car Park to Mt Oxford

HardOxford

14 km↑1014 m6.5–7 hr★4.6 rating

Swim spotShade

Mount Pleasant Track

ModerateChristchurch

2.4 km↑93 m0.5–1 hr★4.6 rating

Crater Rim Track: Sign of the Kiwi to Gondola

ModerateLyttelton

8.9 km↑409 m3–3.5 hr★4.6 rating

ShadeSealed underfoot

Barnett Park Track

ModerateChristchurch

3.9 km↑155 m1–1.5 hr★4.6 rating

Taylors Mistake to Black Rock Point

EasyChristchurch

1.9 km↑43 m0.5–1 hr★4.6 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Mount Vernon Farm and Valley Track Loop

ModerateLyttelton

7.1 km↑433 m3–3.5 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotShade

Halswell Quarry Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

1.4 km↑22 mabout 21 min★4.6 rating

Good with kids

Clay Cliffs Track

ModerateTwizel

1.4 km↑69 m★4.5 rating

Good with kids

Kennedy's Bush Track to Mount Ada

ModerateChristchurch

9.0 km↑390 m3–3.5 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spot

Crater Rim Walkway: Sign of the Kiwi to Coopers Knob

HardChristchurch

16 km↑499 m5.5–6 hr★4.5 rating

Shade

Bridle Path Track

HardLyttelton

5.1 km↑469 m2.5–3 hr★4.5 rating

Shade

Ashburton Domain Loop Walk

EasyAshburton

2.4 km↑3 m0.5–1 hr★4.7 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

Mount Richardson, Blowhard, and Bypass Tracks Loop

HardGlentui

12 km↑733 m5–5.5 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotShade

St James Homestead to Cow Stream Hot Pools and Scotties Hut

ModerateHanmer Springs

17 km↑134 m4–4.5 hr★4.8 rating

Swim spot

Hanmer Forest Sculpture Walk

EasyHanmer Springs

1.9 km↑17 m0.5–1 hr★4.5 rating

ShadeGood with kids

Styx Mill Reserve Loop

EasyChristchurch

5.0 km↑6 m1–1.5 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Bowenvale Valley Loop Track

ModerateChristchurch

4.0 km↑159 m1–1.5 hr★4.5 rating

Shade

McLeans Forest Walking Track

ModerateChristchurch

10 km↑18 m2.5–3 hr★4.5 rating

ShadeGood with kids

Crater Rim, Cedrics, Mitchells, and Gilpins Loop Track

ModerateChristchurch

3.5 km↑154 m1–1.5 hr★4.5 rating

Shade

Glentui Loop Track

ModerateGlentui

2.7 km↑118 m0.5–1 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Wooded Gully, Red Pine, and Kekeru Tracks Loop

ModerateGlentui

5.8 km↑293 m2–2.5 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotShade

Bridge Reserve to South New Brighton Park

EasyChristchurch

4.7 km↑0 m1–1.5 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Eastenders Track

ModerateChristchurch

4.3 km↑305 m2–2.5 hr★4.5 rating

Shade

Rabbit Hill via Trig M

HardSheffield

13 km↑785 m★4.6 rating

Avon River Walkway Loop

EasyChristchurch

4.2 km↑3 m1–1.5 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kidsPram friendly

Christchurch 360 Trail: Sugarloaf Hills

HardChristchurch

18 km↑872 m6–7 hr★4.7 rating

Swim spotShade

Ashley Gorge Loop Track

EasyOxford

1.8 km↑50 m0.5–1 hr★4.6 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Enchanted Forest Walk

EasyMethven

1.8 km↑3 mabout 23 min★4.6 rating

ShadeGood with kids

Ready Money Trail

EasyCheviot

2.7 km↑48 m0.5–1 hr★4.6 rating

ShadeGood with kids

Mount Oxford Loop via Coopers Creek Track

HardOxford

20 km↑1105 m8–9 hr★4.6 rating

Swim spotShade

Mount Oxford Track

HardOxford

20 km↑1128 m8–9 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotShade

Southern Pegasus Bay Track

ModerateChristchurch

13 km↑0 m3–3.5 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotShade

Centennial Park Loop Track

EasyTimaru

6.1 km↑36 m1.5–2 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Lake Tekapo Township to Tekapo Springs

EasyLake Tekapo

3.7 km↑7 m0.5–1 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotSealed underfoot

Mount Ada Summit Loop

ModerateChristchurch

2.9 km↑100 m1–1.5 hr★4.5 rating

Shade

Montgomery Spur Reserve Loop

ModerateChristchurch

8.0 km↑243 m2.5–3 hr★4.5 rating

Pinchgut Track

ModerateRangiora

6.3 km↑282 m★4.5 rating

Swim spotShade

Sumner Promenade

EasyChristchurch

2.4 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kidsPram friendly

Major Hornbrook Track

ModerateChristchurch

2.6 km↑244 m1–1.5 hr★4.5 rating

The Geraldine Walkway

EasyGeraldine

3.5 km↑46 m0.5–1 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotShade

Mount Vernon from Bride Path Road

HardLyttelton

19 km↑875 m7–7.5 hr★4.6 rating

Kowhai, Rapaki, and Valley Tracks Loop

ModerateChristchurch

8.2 km↑371 m3–3.5 hr★4.5 rating

Liffey Stream Walk

EasyLincoln

2.7 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Akaroa Heritage Park via Woodills Track

ModerateAkaroa

4.0 km↑293 m1.5–2 hr★4.5 rating

ShadeGood with kids

Dashing Rocks Loop Walk

EasyTimaru

1.4 km↑3 mabout 19 min★4.5 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Tuhawaiki Trot Track

EasyTimaru

5.0 km↑6 m1–1.5 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Lake Opuha Walk

EasyFairlie

7.2 km↑33 m1.5–2 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Mount Grey / Maukatere Loop

HardAmberley

15 km↑694 m5.5–6 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotShade

Coopers Creek to Wharfdale Hut via Wharfdale Track

HardOxford

20 km↑556 m6.5–7 hr★5.0 rating

Swim spotShade

Bottle Lake Forest Blue Track

ModerateChristchurch

10 km↑0 m2.5–3 hr★4.4 rating

ShadeGood with kids

Craigieburn Edge Track

ModerateSheffield

9.0 km↑407 m3.5–4 hr★4.6 rating

Swim spotShade

Garden Of Tane Loop

ModerateAkaroa

1.0 km↑21 mabout 20 min★4.5 rating

ShadeGood with kidsPram friendly

Wooded Gully Track and Kereru Track

EasyRangiora

2.4 km↑95 m0.5–1 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kidsPram friendly

Matuku Lakes Loop Track

EasyLincoln

2.1 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

Roundabout Lake Emma

ModerateAshburton

14 km↑73 m3.5–4 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spot

Ryde Falls via Coopers Creek

ModerateOxford

14 km↑392 m4.5–5 hr★4.4 rating

Swim spotShade

Dracophyllum Flat Track

ModerateSheffield

6.0 km↑231 m2–2.5 hr★4.6 rating

Swim spotShade

Pekapeka Gully Track

EasyGeraldine

2.4 km↑49 m0.5–1 hr★4.7 rating

Shade

Sumner Beach Walk

EasyChristchurch

2.1 km↑3 m0.5–1 hr★4.7 rating

Swim spot

Halfway Te Ara Trail Circle

ModerateChristchurch

9.3 km↑0 m2–2.5 hr★4.4 rating

Swim spotShadeSealed underfootGood with kidsPram friendly

Latters Spur Track

ModerateChristchurch

5.6 km↑234 m2–2.5 hr★4.4 rating

ShadeGood with kids

Crater Rim Walkway and Summit Road Loop

ModerateChristchurch

2.9 km↑106 m0.5–1 hr★4.4 rating

Sealed underfoot

Mount Thomas Loop via Summit and Ridge Tracks

HardRangiora

11 km↑823 m★4.4 rating

Shade

Talbot Forest Walk

EasyGeraldine

4.2 km↑82 m1–1.5 hr★4.4 rating

ShadeGood with kids

Mt Lyndon Track

HardSheffield

7.2 km↑640 m★4.4 rating

Swim spot

Foggy Peak Track

HardSheffield

5.1 km↑782 m★4.4 rating

St Martin Steps Track

ModerateChristchurch

0.8 km↑62 mabout 20 min★4.5 rating

Shade

Hidden Valley Track to Victoria Park Loop

ModerateChristchurch

8.2 km↑329 m2.5–3 hr★4.4 rating

ShadeSealed underfootGood with kids

Lake Ohau Track

ModerateŌtematatā

11 km↑58 m2–2.5 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spot

Mount Thomas and Wooded Gully Track

HardOxford

10 km↑766 m★4.4 rating

Shade

McIndoe Track - The Willows

EasyChristchurch

3.7 km↑3 m0.5–1 hr★4.4 rating

Swim spotShade

Otukaikino Track

ModerateChristchurch

9.2 km↑3 m2–2.5 hr★4.4 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Hanmer Forest Loop Track

EasyHanmer Springs

4.8 km↑39 m1–1.5 hr★4.4 rating

ShadeGood with kids

Mount Thomas via Summit Track

HardOxford

7.4 km↑697 m4–4.5 hr★4.4 rating

Shade

Craigieburn Forest Loop

HardSheffield

16 km↑570 m5.5–6 hr★4.5 rating

Shade

Gunns Bush Track

EasyWaimate

4.5 km↑103 m1–1.5 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spot

Mona Vale Garden Park Track

EasyChristchurch

1.1 km↑0 mabout 16 min★4.5 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

Quaifes Road Springlands Loop

EasyChristchurch

1.0 km↑0 mabout 12 min★4.5 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Captain Thomas Track Loop

ModerateChristchurch

6.9 km↑263 m2–2.5 hr★4.4 rating

Mount Oxford Summit via View Hill Car Park

HardOxford

16 km↑954 m6.5–7.5 hr★4.6 rating

Shade

Argyle Park Loop

EasyAshburton

1.8 km↑3 mabout 23 min★4.4 rating

Good with kids

Fowlers Pass Track

HardHanmer Springs

33 km↑910 m10.5–11.5 hr★4.6 rating

Swim spot

Timaru Loop Walk

HardTimaru

26 km↑100 m6–6.5 hr★4.7 rating

Swim spotSealed underfoot

Lancaster Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

0.8 km↑0 mabout 13 min★4.7 rating

Sealed underfootGood with kids

Gordon Reid Track

EasyChristchurch

4.3 km↑3 m1–1.5 hr★4.4 rating

Coopers Creek to Ryde Falls via Korimako, Whardafale, and Link Tracks

HardOxford

17 km↑432 m5.5–6 hr★4.4 rating

Swim spotShade

Parsons Creek Track

ModerateTwizel

4.2 km↑123 m1–1.5 hr★4.4 rating

Swim spotShade

Westlake Reserve Walk

EasyChristchurch

1.1 km↑0 mabout 14 min★4.4 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kidsPram friendly

Temuka Field Loop

EasyTemuka

4.7 km↑0 m1–1.5 hr★4.4 rating

Swim spotGood with kidsPram friendly

Crater Rim Walkway: Breeze Col to Livingston Col

ModerateLyttelton

1.4 km↑71 m0.5–1 hr★4.6 rating

Stan Helms Track

ModerateLyttelton

2.6 km↑214 m1–1.5 hr★4.4 rating

Shade

Ngaio Point Coastal Track

ModerateAkaroa

1.8 km↑83 m0.5–1 hr★4.4 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Crater Rim Walkway Short Loop

ModerateLyttelton

1.4 km↑71 m0.5–1 hr★4.4 rating

Mount Ada from Summit Road

ModerateLyttelton

1.6 km↑95 m0.5–1 hr★4.6 rating

Shade

Fowlers Hut to Fowlers Pass

HardHanmer Springs

8.5 km↑339 m3–3.5 hr★5.0 rating

Swim spot

Halswell Domain Loop

EasyChristchurch

2.3 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★4.6 rating

Sealed underfootGood with kids

Mount Grey Lookout via Mount Grey Road

ModerateAmberley

7.4 km↑363 m2.5–3 hr★4.4 rating

Swim spot

Canyon Creek Track via Ahuriri Valley Track

ModerateTwizel

12 km↑324 m3.5–4 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spot

Pleasant Point Domain Walk

EasyPleasant Point

2.6 km↑6 m0.5–1 hr★4.8 rating

Good with kids

Broken Run Reserve to Bedrose Park

EasyChristchurch

1.4 km↑0 mabout 18 min★4.6 rating

Sealed underfootGood with kids

Southshore Spit Track

EasyChristchurch

1.4 km↑0 mabout 19 min★4.4 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Black Hill Track via Wharfedale Track

HardOxford

41 km↑1338 m14–15.5 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotShade

Tekapo Township to Pines Beach Trail

EasyTwizel

4.5 km↑0 m1–1.5 hr★4.3 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Huntsbury Track

ModerateChristchurch

4.5 km↑179 m1.5–2 hr★4.3 rating

Swim spot

Newton’s Waterfall from Akaroa

ModerateAkaroa

4.3 km↑183 m1–1.5 hr★4.3 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

St. James Cycleway via Lake Guyon and Fowlers Camp

HardHanmer Springs

45 km↑929 m13.5–14.5 hr★5.0 rating

Swim spot

Spencer Park MTB Brown and Southern Pegasus Bay Track

ModerateChristchurch

15 km↑3 m3.5–4 hr★4.3 rating

Swim spotShade

Ōhinetahi Reserve

ModerateLyttelton

5.8 km↑341 m2–2.5 hr★4.3 rating

Shade

Intake Track

EasyWaimate

2.1 km↑38 m0.5–1 hr★4.7 rating

Swim spotShade

Bottle Lake Green Track Loop

EasyChristchurch

2.1 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★4.3 rating

Shade

Otipua Creek Walkway

EasyTimaru

3.1 km↑3 m0.5–1 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Mears Bush Track

EasyOxford

1.0 km↑15 mabout 14 min★4.5 rating

Shade

Linwood Park Loop Walk

EasyChristchurch

1.3 km↑0 mabout 17 min★4.5 rating

Sealed underfootGood with kids

Fendalton Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

0.6 km↑0 mabout 10 min★4.6 rating

Good with kids

Coopers Knob from Summit Road

ModerateChristchurch

1.6 km↑64 m0.5–1 hr★4.3 rating

Dog Stream Reserve Walk

EasyHanmer Springs

2.9 km↑20 m0.5–1 hr★4.3 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Lake Hood Loop Walk

EasyAshburton

6.0 km↑0 m1–1.5 hr★4.3 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Faulkners Track

HardLyttelton

5.5 km↑431 m2.5–3 hr★4.3 rating

Shade

Macaulay Hut Track

HardTwizel

19 km↑275 m4.5–5 hr★4.4 rating

Swim spot

Cameron Hut Track

HardAshburton

16 km↑604 m4.5–5 hr★4.3 rating

Swim spot

Akaroa Childrens Walkway Loop

ModerateAkaroa

7.9 km↑254 m2.5–3 hr★4.3 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Opihi River Walkway

EasyTimaru

2.4 km↑6 m0.5–1 hr★4.6 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Sign of the Tahake and Water Tower Lookout Walk

EasyChristchurch

0.3 km↑0 mabout 5 min★4.5 rating

ShadeGood with kids

View Hill Car Park to Ryde Falls

ModerateOxford

9.8 km↑343 m3–3.5 hr★4.4 rating

Swim spotShade

White Pine Track (Pioneer Park Conservation Area)

ModeratePleasant Point

4.8 km↑134 m1.5–2 hr★4.3 rating

Foster Park Loop Track

EasyRolleston

2.4 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★4.3 rating

Sealed underfootGood with kids

Temple Valley Circuit Track

ModerateTwizel

1.9 km↑108 m0.5–1 hr★4.3 rating

Swim spotShade

The Willows Dog Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

0.6 km↑0 mabout 8 min★4.5 rating

Good with kids

Lake Victoria Loop

EasyChristchurch

0.8 km↑0 mabout 13 min★4.3 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

F W Delamain Park Walk

EasyChristchurch

0.6 km↑0 mabout 9 min★4.6 rating

Good with kids

Nicholson Park Walk

ModerateChristchurch

1.0 km↑55 m0.5–1 hr★4.3 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Salmon Creek Route to Lower Salmon Creek Bivouac

HardOxford

7.4 km↑881 m4.5–5 hr

Swim spotShade

St James Cycle Trail: Scotties Hut to St James Homestead

ModerateHanmer Springs

17 km↑288 m4–4.5 hr

Swim spot

Kekerengu Beach Walk

EasyKaikōura

1.1 km↑8 mabout 15 min

Swim spotGood with kids

Kowai Domain Campsite to Springfield

ModerateSpringfield

3.4 km↑29 m0.5–1 hr

Ernle Clark Reserve Walk

EasyChristchurch

0.6 km↑0 mabout 8 min★4.3 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Whites Road Reserve Loop Walk

EasyKaiapoi

1.0 km↑0 mabout 14 min★4.3 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Heathcote Expressway Cycleway

ModerateChristchurch

5.5 km↑0 m1–1.5 hr

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

Bradford Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

0.6 km↑0 mabout 9 min★4.3 rating

ShadeGood with kids

Hay Reserve Loop Walk

EasyAkaroa

1.0 km↑0 mabout 12 min

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Pegasus Bay Walkway

EasyKaiapoi

5.0 km↑0 m1–1.5 hr★4.2 rating

Good with kids

Otipua Wetlands Walk

EasyTimaru

3.9 km↑13 m0.5–1 hr★4.2 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Waimakariri Walkway

ModerateChristchurch

10 km↑0 m2.5–3 hr★4.2 rating

Swim spot

Tahi and Rua Lakes Loop

EasyChristchurch

2.3 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★4.2 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Pegasus Lake Walk

EasyPegasus

3.5 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★4.2 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

Drayton Reserve Track

ModerateChristchurch

2.9 km↑158 m1–1.5 hr★4.2 rating

ShadeGood with kids

Mount Potts Easement Track

HardPeel Forest

11 km↑722 m4.5–5 hr★4.2 rating

Mystery Lake from Potts River Car Park

HardAshburton

19 km↑568 m5.5–6.5 hr★4.2 rating

Swim spot

Westmorland East Valley Reserve Loop Track

ModerateChristchurch

2.4 km↑88 m0.5–1 hr★4.2 rating

Swim spotShadeSealed underfootGood with kids

Wharfedale Hut to View Hill Carpark

ModerateOxford

14 km↑359 m4.5–5 hr★4.2 rating

Swim spotShade

Te Waoku Kahikatea Walk

EasyChristchurch

1.6 km↑0 mabout 19 min★4.2 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kidsPram friendly

Matuku Lakes Loop Track

EasyChristchurch

1.8 km↑0 mabout 21 min★4.2 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Okuti Valley Scenic Reserve Walk

ModerateLittle River

0.6 km↑40 mabout 15 min★4.2 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Ahuriri Valley Track: Birchwood Road End to Hagens Hut

ModerateŌtematatā

13 km↑114 m3–3.5 hr★4.2 rating

Swim spot

Matawai Park Walk

EasyRangiora

0.6 km↑0 mabout 8 min★4.2 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Opihi Walkway - Stoneleigh Bridge to Fairlie

EasyFairlie

12 km↑0 m2.5–3 hr★4.2 rating

Swim spotShade

Knottingley Park Loop

EasyWaimate

2.1 km↑3 m0.5–1 hr★4.2 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Mount Richardson via Blowhard Track

HardRangiora

28 km↑1455 m11–12 hr★4.2 rating

Swim spotShade

Ashley Gorge Waterfall via Totaranui Trail

ModerateOxford

3.7 km↑255 m★4.2 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Waimakariri Gorge Bridge Reserve Walk

EasySheffield

1.0 km↑7 mabout 15 min

Swim spot

Stanley Vale Hut to Scotties Hut

HardHanmer Springs

20 km↑261 m6–6.5 hr

Swim spotShade

Taumatakahu Stream Reserve Walk

EasyTemuka

3.9 km↑3 m0.5–1 hr

Swim spotGood with kids

Christchurch 360 Trail: Opawaho Divide

ModerateChristchurch

18 km↑16 m4–4.5 hr★4.1 rating

Swim spotShadeSealed underfoot

Mount Vernon from Summit Road

ModerateChristchurch

0.4 km↑35 mabout 12 min★4.1 rating

Kowai Bush Walk

ModerateSpringfield

0.6 km↑28 mabout 12 min★4.1 rating

Good with kids

Jolies Bush Walk

ModerateChristchurch

0.6 km↑22 mabout 13 min★4.0 rating

ShadeGood with kids

Latimer Square Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

0.5 km↑0 mabout 8 min★4.1 rating

Sealed underfootGood with kids

Potts Hut via Potts River Car Park

ExpertAshburton

45 km↑1772 m15–16.5 hr★3.9 rating

Swim spot

Homebush Track

ModeratePleasant Point

1.3 km↑72 m0.5–1 hr★3.8 rating

Swim spotShade

Garlands Track

EasyWaimate

1.9 km↑15 m0.5–1 hr

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Double Hill Access Track: Homestead Hill Easement

ModerateMethven

1.4 km↑236 m0.5–1 hr

Cuthberts Green Loop

EasyChristchurch

1.4 km↑0 mabout 20 min

Good with kids

Edmonds Factory Gardens Walk

EasyChristchurch

0.4 km↑0 mabout 4 min

Good with kids

Papanui Stream Walk

EasyChristchurch

1.3 km↑0 mabout 15 min★3.9 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kidsPram friendly

Ray Blank Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

0.6 km↑0 mabout 10 min

Good with kids

Brooklands Lagoon Track

ModerateChristchurch

8.5 km↑0 m2–2.5 hr★4.1 rating

Swim spot

Poynter Track

EasyKaiapoi

7.6 km↑3 m1.5–2 hr★4.1 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Kenton Track

ModerateChristchurch

3.5 km↑253 m1.5–2 hr★4.1 rating

Kruger Drainage Reserve Loop

EasyChristchurch

0.5 km↑0 mabout 7 min

Good with kids

Ngā Puna Wai Walk

EasyChristchurch

5.8 km↑3 m1–1.5 hr★4.1 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

River Terrace Walkway

EasyRakaia

5.6 km↑17 m1–1.5 hr★4.1 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Warren Park Loop Walk

EasyChristchurch

1.6 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★4.1 rating

Good with kids

Pareora River Walk

EasyTimaru

4.5 km↑21 m1–1.5 hr★4.0 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Te Rauakaaka Trail

ModerateChristchurch

9.5 km↑6 m2–2.5 hr★4.0 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Ahuriri Valley Track: Hagens Hut to Top Hut

ModerateTwizel

6.1 km↑93 m1.5–2 hr

Swim spot

Hollis Reserve Walk

EasyChristchurch

0.3 km↑0 mabout 4 min★3.6 rating

Good with kids

Heathcote Estuary Loop

EasyChristchurch

6.1 km↑18 m1–1.5 hr★4.1 rating

Swim spotShade

Twizel Walkway

EasyTwizel

8.2 km↑22 m1.5–2 hr★4.1 rating

Swim spotShadeSealed underfoot

Temuka & Opihi River Walk

EasyTemuka

2.9 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★3.8 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Horseshoe Perimeter Walk

EasyChristchurch

3.1 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★4.0 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Living Springs Ridge Sunset Walk

ModerateChristchurch

3.1 km↑203 m1–1.5 hr★3.9 rating

Takapō Regional Park Loop

ModerateLake Tekapo

6.8 km↑73 m1.5–2 hr★4.0 rating

Shade

Grey River Nature Trail

EasyAmberley

2.4 km↑67 m0.5–1 hr★3.9 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Waimairi Beach Walk

ModerateChristchurch

5.0 km↑3 m1–1.5 hr★4.0 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Akaroa Heritage Park Walk

EasyAkaroa

0.5 km↑14 mabout 8 min★3.8 rating

ShadeGood with kids

Salt Water Creek Walkway

EasyTimaru

4.7 km↑0 m1–1.5 hr★4.0 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Templars Island Trail

ModerateBelfast

13 km↑34 m3–3.5 hr★3.8 rating

Swim spotShade

Prebbleton Nature Park Walk

EasyPrebbleton

1.0 km↑0 mabout 14 min★3.8 rating

Good with kids

Bullers Stream Walkway

EasyChristchurch

2.6 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★4.0 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

St Albans Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

0.8 km↑0 mabout 12 min★3.6 rating

Good with kidsPram friendly

Sydenham Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

0.8 km↑0 mabout 12 min★3.2 rating

Sealed underfootGood with kids

Walthham Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

0.6 km↑0 mabout 8 min

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

Centennial Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

0.8 km↑0 mabout 13 min★3.6 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

Port Hills Loop

HardChristchurch

14 km↑705 m5.5–6 hr★4.0 rating

Shade

Lincoln Wetlands Walk

EasyLincoln

1.6 km↑0 mabout 19 min★3.9 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Mount Hutt Skifield Road to Pudding Hill Stream

ModerateMethven

4.0 km↑399 m2–2.5 hr★3.3 rating

Swim spotShade

Mount Lyford Village Loop

ModerateWaiau

3.5 km↑181 m1–1.5 hr★3.7 rating

Shade

Bridge Hill via Hutt Creek Track

ModerateSheffield

2.9 km↑142 m1–1.5 hr★3.0 rating

Shade

Kakanui River Mouth Loop Walk

EasyOamaru

3.2 km↑35 m0.5–1 hr★3.5 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

Bobs Camp Bivouac Route

HardOxford

10 km↑409 m4.5–5 hr★3.6 rating

Swim spotShade

Lake Hood to Ashburton River Loop

EasyAshburton

3.1 km↑3 m0.5–1 hr★3.3 rating

Swim spotShade

Fairlie River Walk

EasyFairlie

5.5 km↑19 m1–1.5 hr★3.9 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Wharfedale Track to Wharfedale Hut

HardOxford

14 km↑338 m4.5–5 hr★3.8 rating

Swim spotShade

Jellie Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

1.3 km↑0 mabout 18 min★3.9 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

Rutland Street Park Walk to Papanui Stream

EasyChristchurch

2.6 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★3.8 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

Cavendish Bluffs Loop Track

ModerateLyttelton

4.8 km↑309 m2–2.5 hr★3.9 rating

Ellangowan Scenic Reserve Walk

ModerateAkaroa

1.4 km↑91 m0.5–1 hr★3.5 rating

Shade

Edgar Macintosh Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

0.6 km↑0 mabout 9 min★3.5 rating

Good with kids

Benmore Gardens Reserve Walk

EasyChristchurch

0.3 km↑0 mabout 4 min

Sealed underfootGood with kids

Scott Pond Track

ModerateTwizel

4.3 km↑51 m1–1.5 hr★3.3 rating

Swim spotShade

Jack Lovelock Memorial Track

ModerateFairlie

8.9 km↑69 m2–2.5 hr★3.3 rating

ShadeSealed underfoot

Waimakariri River & McLeans Forest Loop

ModerateChristchurch

11 km↑18 m2.5–3 hr★3.8 rating

Swim spotShade

Dickeys to Waimakariri Trail

EasyChristchurch

5.8 km↑3 m1–1.5 hr★3.6 rating

Good with kids

Lake Hood Trail

ModerateAshburton

16 km↑31 m3.5–4 hr★3.8 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Sparks Road Wetland Loop

EasyChristchurch

1.8 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★3.7 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Northern Line Cycleway

EasyChristchurch

5.3 km↑3 m1–1.5 hr★3.6 rating

Swim spotShadeSealed underfootGood with kids

Lake Ruataniwha Track

ModerateTwizel

9.7 km↑41 m2–2.5 hr★3.6 rating

Swim spot

Lake Janet Loop Walk

EasyAmberley

0.3 km↑4 mabout 4 min★2.9 rating

Swim spotShade

Panama Rock and Kellers Peak Walk

ModerateAkaroa

3.4 km↑237 m1.5–2 hr★3.5 rating

Shade

Maitland Hut via Maitland Track [PRIVATE PROPERTY]

HardTwizel

21 km↑1065 m8–9 hr★2.1 rating

Swim spotShade

Coes Ford Reserve Walk

EasyLeeston

1.3 km↑0 mabout 16 min★2.5 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Twizel River Trail

ModerateTwizel

23 km↑68 m5.5–6 hr★3.2 rating

Swim spot

Nunweek Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

1.6 km↑0 mabout 22 min★2.4 rating

Good with kids

Kaiapoi Island Trail

ModerateKaiapoi

7.2 km↑0 m1.5–2 hr★3.6 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

Hook Bush Track

ModerateTimaru

4.7 km↑277 m★3.1 rating

Shade

Burnside Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

2.3 km↑3 m0.5–1 hr★3.6 rating

Good with kids

Avonhead Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

1.8 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★2.0 rating

Sealed underfootGood with kidsPram friendly

Bush Stream Track

HardTwizel

13 km↑548 m

Swim spot

Kakaha Park Loop

EasyPrebbleton

1.0 km↑0 mabout 12 min

Sealed underfootGood with kids

Tullet Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

1.1 km↑0 mabout 17 min

Good with kids

Wycola Park Loop

EasyChristchurch

0.6 km↑0 mabout 9 min

Good with kids

Ahuriri Valley Track

ExpertTwizel

18 km↑705 m4h 49m

Mount Thomas Forest: Forest Track

EasyRangiora

1.1 km↑29 m16m

Sanders Falls Track

EasyWaimate

0.3 km↑0 m3m

Stour Track

HardTinwald

14 km↑212 m3h 10m

Te Araroa: Double Hut to Lake Emily

HardTinwald

9.5 km↑192 m2h 13m

Pūkaki Flats Walk

ModerateTwizel

8.4 km↑80 m1h 48m

Te Araroa: Comyns Hut to Clent Hills Saddle

ModerateAshburton

8.3 km↑17 m1h 41m

Pudding Hill Stream Route

HardAshburton

7.5 km↑573 m2h 27m

Te Araroa: Clent Hills Saddle to Double Hut

HardAshburton

7.3 km↑672 m2h 35m

South Temple Track

ModerateTwizel

7.0 km↑252 m1h 48m

North Temple Track

EasyTwizel

4.9 km↑1 m59m

Chatterton River Track

HardHanmer

3.4 km↑381 m1h 18m

Dingle Burn Track

EasyTwizel

2.8 km↑0 m33m

Hakatere River Trail

Expert

17 km↑82 m3h 26m

Lake Hood River Trail

Easy

3.6 km↑0 m42m

River Trail Loop

Moderate

5.9 km↑33 m1h 14m

Waitohi Bush

EasyWaitohi

0.6 km↑6 m8m

Claremont Bush

EasyClaremont Bush

0.3 km↑0 m3m

Arowhenua - Waipopo Huts Stopbank Walk

EasyOpihi River Stop Banks

4.7 km↑38 m1h

Pleasant Point Stream

EasyPleasant Point

0.6 km↑2 m7m

Opihi River Track

ModerateOpihi River Stop Banks

5.3 km↑29 m1h 7m

Stratheona Huts to Te Ngawai Rd Across River

EasyOpihi River Stop Banks

1.9 km↑15 m24m

PlPt Arowhenua Alternate Trail

ModerateOpihi River Stop Banks

7.9 km↑38 m1h 39m

Hilton Highway Footpath

EasyTimaru

1.3 km↑4 m15m

Pram friendly

Breakwater

EasyTimaru

0.8 km↑1 m10m

Te Wharau Charteris Bay to Orton Bradley Park

EasyGovernors Bay

0.4 km↑0 m4m

Blowhard Track

Hard

9.9 km↑841 m3h 22m

Bob's Camp Route

Moderate

4.4 km↑284 m1h 21m

Bypass Track

Hard

2.8 km↑432 m1h 16m

Canyon Creek Route

Moderate

4.2 km↑173 m1h 7m

Homestead Hill Easement

Easy

1.2 km↑0 m14m

Korimako Track

Easy

1.3 km↑96 m24m

Lake Guyon Track (Sjct)

Easy

2.2 km↑6 m26m

Macaulay Valley Track

Expert

18 km↑240 m4h 3m

Matai Track

Easy

0.6 km↑9 m8m

Mcarthur Track (Sjct)

Expert

20 km↑436 m4h 49m

Moki Track (Sjct)

Moderate

5.2 km↑60 m1h 8m

Mt Grey Walking Track

Hard

5.8 km↑660 m2h 15m

Mt Oxford Track

Hard

4.9 km↑933 m2h 31m

Mt Richardson Track

Hard

3.2 km↑636 m1h 41m

Mystery Lake Track

Hard

11 km↑245 m2h 41m

Peters Valley Track (Sjct)

Moderate

7.1 km↑136 m1h 38m

Potts Hut Track

Hard

14 km↑791 m4h 11m

Red Beech Track

Hard

6.4 km↑655 m2h 21m

Red Pine Track

Easy

1.8 km↑10 m22m

Reservoir Track

Easy

0.2 km↑11 m3m

Ridge Track

Hard

7.0 km↑770 m2h 41m

River Access @ Ba Boundary Easement Tat

Easy

2.0 km↑11 m25m

Ryde Falls Track

Moderate

6.4 km↑309 m1h 47m

Stanley River Track

Expert

16 km↑411 m3h 53m

Stream Easement

Easy

1.1 km↑2 m13m

Summit Track

Hard

3.1 km↑668 m1h 44m

T.A. Buicks Bridge-Potts Bridge

Expert

25 km↑546 m5h 54m

Tarn Easement

Easy

0.6 km↑8 m8m

Totara Track

Easy

0.3 km↑4 m3m

View Hill To Mt Oxford Track

Moderate

5.6 km↑8 m1h 8m

Waterfall (Dog Stream) Track

Easy

2.0 km↑0 m23m

Wharfedale Track

Hard

14 km↑309 m3h 20m

Wooded Gully Track

Hard

3.8 km↑583 m1h 44m

Kowai Pass Domain

EasySpringfield

1.0 km↑16 m14 min

Templers Island Trail

HardChristchurch

15 km↑96 m3 hr 6 min

Snowy Gorge Hut

HardOmarama

12 km↑407 m3 hr 1 min

Hopkins Valley: Monument Hut to Elcho Hut

HardLake Ōhau

12 km↑228 mabout 2 hr 46

Hopkins and Huxley: Monument Hut to Huxley Forks Hut

HardLake Ōhau

9.0 km↑185 m2 hr 6 min

Otamatapaio River Easement

HardOteake Conservation Park

10 km↑383 mabout 2 hr 43

Richmond Trail

HardLake Tekapo

13 km↑32 mabout 2 hr 39

Camp Stream Hut Track

HardLake Tekapo

9.9 km↑649 m3 hr 4 min

Mt Fyffe Track

ExpertKaikōura

8.4 km↑1401 m4 hr 0 min

Freehold Creek Track

ModerateLake Ōhau

3.0 km↑304 m1 hr 6 min

Lake Emily to Manuka Hut

ModerateHakatere

4.7 km↑188 m1 hr 15 min

Lake Christabel Track

HardSprings Junction

15 km↑78 m3 hr 10 min

Mt Fyffe Hut Track

HardKaikōura

5.4 km↑919 mabout 2 hr 37

Reid's Pit Walking Tracks

EasyRolleston

0.8 km↑4 m10 min

Craigieburn Sidle 73 Track

EasyCraigieburn Forest Park

1.2 km↑31 m17 min

Urumau Reserve Track

ModerateLyttelton

1.4 km↑244 m41 min

Saddle Hill Summit Track

ModerateLittle River

1.5 km↑157 m34 min

Victoria Park Loop

EasyWaimate

0.8 km↑2 m10 min

Leith Hill Loop Track

ModerateCastle Hill Village

6.0 km↑350 mabout 1 hr 47

Pylon Track

HardTwizel

11 km↑59 m2 hr 15 min

Camp Saddle Loop via The Luge Track

HardSheffield

10 km↑622 m3 hr 5 min

Camp Saddle Track

HardSheffield

6.7 km↑504 m2 hr 11 min

Horseshoe Lake Red Zone Loop

EasyChristchurch

2.4 km↑5 m28 min

Richmond Avon River Bridge Loop

EasyChristchurch

1.9 km↑5 m23 min

Mount Haast Route

ExpertReefton

2.3 km↑851 mabout 1 hr 52

Duffy Creek Route

ExpertReefton

1.9 km↑304 m53 min

Klondyke Spur Track

ExpertReefton

1.9 km↑616 mabout 1 hr 24

Klondyke Valley Track

ExpertReefton

3.8 km↑414 mabout 1 hr 27

Lake Stream Route

ExpertReefton

6.8 km↑484 m2 hr 9 min

Pegasus Bay Walkway, Pines Beach

EasyPines Beach

4.0 km↑23 m50 min

Graveyards, Hāpuku

EasyKaikōura

1.2 km↑14 m15 min

Waikuku Beach

EasyWaikuku

4.1 km↑56 m54 min

Rakahuri Trail

EasyRangiora

3.2 km↑11 m39 min

O'Neill's Reserve to Cave River Walk

EasyCave

2.5 km↑17 m32 min

Mt Fyffe Forest Walk

ModerateKaikōura

2.3 km↑261 m53 min

Island Hills Station Walking Track

ExpertCulverden

25 km↑1149 m6 hr 57 min

Balmoral Fire Lookout

EasyCulverden

1.4 km↑123 m29 min

Star ratings are average scores from the walkers who have logged each track.

Stay & walk

Dog-friendly campsites near Canterbury tracks

DOC campsites within reach of these tracks, check each one's dog rules before you book.

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More dog-friendly walks near Canterbury

Towns in Canterbury

Christchurch 115 Oxford 23 Twizel 20 Lyttelton 18 Hanmer Springs 17 Sheffield 14 Ashburton 13 Timaru 12 Glentui 11 Akaroa 10 Reefton 9 Amberley 9

Nearby regions

Nelson-Tasman Marlborough West Coast Otago Southland

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