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-43.56162, 172.72838
Off-lead OKModerate

Drayton Reserve Track

Christchurch · Canterbury · Out & Back

0.511.522.9 km181 m
↑ 158 m gain↓ 156 m descenthigh 181 msteepest 16 %
DISTANCE2.9 km
ASCENT158 m
DURATION1–1.5 hr
STEEPEST16 %
ROUTEOut & Back
RATING · HIKERS 4.2 · 43
DOG EFFORT2.8 /5 paws
PARKING270 m away
DirectionsApple MapsForecast at the trailheadDownload GPXSend the start point to your phone
Nearest emergency vetChristchurch After Hours Veterinary Centre, Christchurch~10 min drive · after-hours (nights+weekends)
03 366 1052
The route

Good to know

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

Forest shadeGood with kids

About Drayton Reserve Track

Drayton Reserve Track covers 2.9 km, near Christchurch in Canterbury, walked as an out-and-back.

Graded moderate, it climbs about 158 m overall, pitching up to 16 % at its steepest, and takes about 1–1.5 hr to walk.

The track takes in native forest, big views, and wildflowers. Dogs are allowed off the lead on this one. Hikers rate it 4.2 / 5 across 43 reviews.

Stay nearby

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

Stay & walk

Awaroa/Godley Head Campsite

6.8 km awayCampsite details →Stay & walk

Wooded Gully Campsite

51.8 km awayCampsite details →
Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog go off the lead on Drayton Reserve Track?

Yes. Drayton Reserve Track 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 Drayton Reserve Track?

Drayton Reserve Track is 2.9 km with roughly 158 m of climb and takes about 1–1.5 hr.

Are there dog-friendly campsites near Drayton Reserve Track?

Yes. The closest is Awaroa/Godley Head Campsite, about 7 km away, and the track page lists more under Stay nearby. Every campsite shows its dog rules.

Where dogs are welcome in NZCamping with your dogGear checklist for dog hikes

Hikes nearby

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

Barnett Park Cave Loop

ModerateChristchurch
3.9 km↑159 m1–1.5 hr★4.6 rating

Barnett Park Track

ModerateChristchurch
3.9 km↑155 m1–1.5 hr★4.6 rating

Eastenders Track

ModerateChristchurch
4.3 km↑305 m2–2.5 hr★4.5 rating
Shade

Kenton Track

ModerateChristchurch
3.5 km↑253 m1.5–2 hr★4.1 rating

More in Canterbury

Waimakariri Walkway

ModerateChristchurch
10 km↑0 m2.5–3 hr★4.2 rating
Swim spot

Waitohi Bush

EasyWaitohi
0.6 km↑6 m8m

Walthham Park Loop

EasyChristchurch
0.6 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★2.3 rating
Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

See every dog-friendly track in Canterbury →

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