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-44.61940, 170.96898
Off-lead OKModerate

Hook Bush Track

Timaru · Canterbury · Out & Back

1234.5 km501 m
↑ 277 m gain↓ 276 m descenthigh 501 msteepest 39 %
DISTANCE4.7 km
ASCENT277 m
STEEPEST39 %
ROUTEOut & Back
RATING · HIKERS 3.1 · 18
DOG EFFORT3.9 /5 paws
DirectionsApple MapsForecast at the trailheadDownload GPXSend the start point to your phone
Nearest emergency vetDunedin Emergency & After-Hours Vet Clinic (DEVC), Dunedin~165 min drive · after-hours (nights+weekends)
03 477 7233
The route

Good to know

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

Forest shadeUsually a quiet track

About Hook Bush Track

Hook Bush Track covers 4.7 km, near Timaru in Canterbury, walked as an out-and-back.

Expect moderate going, with around 277 m of climb, pitching up to 39 % at its steepest.

The track takes in native forest, big views, and wildlife. Dogs are allowed off the lead on this one. Hikers rate it 3.1 / 5 across 18 reviews.

Stay nearby

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

Stay & walk

Pioneer Park Campsite

52.9 km awayCampsite details →
Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog go off the lead on Hook Bush Track?

Yes. Hook Bush 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 Hook Bush Track?

Hook Bush Track is 4.7 km with roughly 277 m of climb.

Are there dog-friendly campsites near Hook Bush Track?

Yes. The closest is Pioneer Park Campsite, about 53 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.

Gunns Bush Track

EasyWaimate
4.5 km↑103 m1–1.5 hr★4.5 rating
Swim spot

Intake Track

EasyWaimate
2.1 km↑38 m0.5–1 hr★4.7 rating
Swim spotShade

Garlands Track

EasyWaimate
1.9 km↑15 m0.5–1 hr★3.6 rating
Swim spotShadeGood with kids

More in Canterbury

Twizel River Trail

ModerateTwizel
23 km↑68 m5.5–6 hr★3.2 rating
Swim spot

Twizel Walkway

EasyTwizel
8.2 km↑22 m1.5–2 hr★4.1 rating
Swim spotShadeSealed underfoot

See every dog-friendly track in Canterbury →

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