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Off-lead OKEasy

HImitangi Beach and Forest Walk

Himatangi Beach · Manawatū-Whanganui · Loop

↑ 28 m gain↓ 28 m descenthigh 16 msteepest 6 %
DISTANCE11.1 km
ASCENT28 m
DURATION2.5–3 hr
STEEPEST6 %
ROUTELoop
DOG EFFORT2.4 /5 paws
PARKING10 m away
DirectionsApple MapsForecast at the trailheadDownload GPXSend the start point to your phone
Nearest emergency vetMassey University Pet Emergency Centre (Te Pokapu Ohotata), Palmerston North~40 min drive · 24/7
0800 738 363
The route

Good to know

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

Beach swimForest shadeUsually a quiet track

About HImitangi Beach and Forest Walk

HImitangi Beach and Forest Walk is a loop of 11.1 km, near Himatangi Beach in Manawatū-Whanganui.

Expect easy going, with around 28 m of climb, pitching up to 6 % at its steepest, and takes about 2.5–3 hr to walk.

The track takes in beach walking, native forest, and historic sites. Dogs are allowed off the lead on this one.

Stay nearby

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

Stay & walk

Kiriwhakapapa Campsite

55.5 km awayCampsite details →Stay & walk

Boielles Campsite

55.9 km awayCampsite details →
Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog go off the lead on HImitangi Beach and Forest Walk?

Yes. HImitangi Beach and Forest 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 HImitangi Beach and Forest Walk?

HImitangi Beach and Forest Walk is 11.1 km with roughly 28 m of climb and takes about 2.5–3 hr.

Is there water for my dog to swim on HImitangi Beach and Forest Walk?

Yes, the track has beach 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 HImitangi Beach and Forest Walk?

Yes. The closest is Kiriwhakapapa Campsite, about 56 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.

Ferry Reserve Track

EasyFoxton
2.1 km↑3 m0.5–1 hr★4.4 rating
Good with kids

Foxton Beach Sunset Walkway

EasyFoxton
2.7 km↑8 m0.5–1 hr★4.5 rating
Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Foxton Manawatu River Walk

EasyFoxton
2.4 km↑17 m0.5–1 hr★2.5 rating
Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Bulls Domain Walk

EasyBulls
2.7 km↑10 m0.5–1 hr★3.7 rating
Swim spotShade

More in Manawatū-Whanganui

Ohinetonga Track

EasyOwhango
4.3 km↑136 m1–1.5 hr★4.6 rating
Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Old West Road To Atawhai Park

ModeratePalmerston North
3.9 km↑67 m1–1.5 hr★4.6 rating
Swim spotShade

Ongarue River Walk

EasyTaumarunui
2.3 km↑11 m0.5–1 hr★3.5 rating
Swim spotGood with kids

Pari Reserve Walkway

EasyPalmerston North
1.1 km↑10 m0.5–1 hr★4.0 rating
Swim spotShadeGood with kids

See every dog-friendly track in Manawatū-Whanganui →

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