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Off-lead OKEasy

Bill Wilkes Reserve Walk

Richmond · Nelson-Tasman · Out & Back

↑ 14 m gain↓ 14 m descenthigh 37 msteepest 6 %

DISTANCE1.3 km

ASCENT14 m

DURATION0.5–1 hr

STEEPEST6 %

ROUTEOut & Back

RATING · HIKERS 4.2 · 7

DOG EFFORT1.5 /5 paws

PARKING10 m away

Directions Apple Maps Forecast at the trailhead Download GPX Send the start point to your phone

Nearest emergency vetNelson Vets - Saxton (after-hours on-call), Nelson~5 min drive · after-hours (nights+weekends)

03 544 5678

The route

Good to know

Dogs can run off-lead here, one of only 323 tracks in Aotearoa where that’s allowed.

River swim spotsOpen track, carry water for the dogPaw-friendly sealed surfaceGood with kids

Check the water before the dog swims. Toxic algae blooms in NZ rivers and lakes can kill a dog within hours. Scan the LAWA water quality map in warm months and keep dogs away from dark slime on rocks.

About Bill Wilkes Reserve Walk

Near Richmond in Nelson-Tasman, Bill Wilkes Reserve Walk runs 1.3 km as an out-and-back.

Graded easy, it climbs about 14 m overall, pitching up to 6 % at its steepest, and takes about 0.5–1 hr to walk.

Along the way there are river frontage and big views. Dogs are allowed off the lead on this one. Hikers rate it 4.2 / 5 across 7 reviews.

Stay nearby

Dog-friendly DOC campsites close to the trailhead, sort out the sleep, then walk.

Stay & walk

Mill Flat Campsite

31.7 km awayCampsite details →Stay & walk

Butchers Flat Campsite

34.0 km awayCampsite details →

Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog go off the lead on Bill Wilkes Reserve Walk?

Yes. Bill Wilkes Reserve Walk is one of only 323 tracks in New Zealand where dogs can legally run off the lead. Check for seasonal wildlife closures before you unclip.

How long is Bill Wilkes Reserve Walk?

Bill Wilkes Reserve Walk is 1.3 km with roughly 14 m of climb and takes about 0.5–1 hr.

Is there water for my dog to swim on Bill Wilkes Reserve Walk?

Yes, the track has river access where a dog can cool off. In warm months check the LAWA water quality map for toxic algae warnings first.

Are there dog-friendly campsites near Bill Wilkes Reserve Walk?

Yes. The closest is Mill Flat Campsite, about 32 km away, and the track page lists more under Stay nearby. Every campsite shows its dog rules.

Hikes nearby

The closest dog-friendly tracks to this trailhead, by straight-line distance.

Jimmy Lee Creek Circuit

ModerateRichmond

3.9 km↑184 m1–1.5 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotShade

Easby Park Walk

EasyRichmond

0.5 km↑7 m0.5–1 hr★3.6 rating

Good with kids

Reservoir Creek Track to Richmond Hill

HardRichmond

6.3 km↑447 m2.5–3 hr★4.6 rating

Swim spotShade

Saxton Shared Path Cycleway

EasyNSPE

0.4 km↑0 m4m