-43.58029, 172.65601
On-leadModerate

Huntsbury Track

Christchurch · Canterbury · Out & Back

1234.4 km417 m
↑ 179 m gain↓ 178 m descenthigh 417 msteepest 22 %
DISTANCE4.5 km
ASCENT179 m
DURATION1.5–2 hr
STEEPEST22 %
ROUTEOut & Back
RATING · HIKERS 4.3 · 205
DOG EFFORT3.0 /5 paws
PARKING20 m away
Nearest emergency vetChristchurch After Hours Veterinary Centre, Christchurch~5 min drive · after-hours (nights+weekends)
03 366 1052
The route

Good to know

On the lead here. Keep it to two metres or less and watch for ground-nesting birds, as on most NZ tracks.

Lake swimOpen track, carry water for the dogA popular track, busy on weekendsStile on routeCattle grid on route
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.
This route includes driving sections, check road access and conditions before you set out.

About Huntsbury Track

Huntsbury Track is an out-and-back of 4.5 km, near Christchurch in Canterbury.

Expect moderate going, with around 179 m of climb, pitching up to 22 % at its steepest, and takes about 1.5–2 hr to walk.

Along the way there are lakeside stretches, big views, and wildflowers. Dogs are welcome here on the lead. Hikers rate it 4.3 / 5 across 205 reviews.

Stay nearby

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

Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog go off the lead on Huntsbury Track?

Dogs are welcome on Huntsbury Track on a lead. Keep the lead at two metres or less and watch for ground-nesting birds.

How long is Huntsbury Track?

Huntsbury Track is 4.5 km with roughly 179 m of climb and takes about 1.5–2 hr.

Is there water for my dog to swim on Huntsbury Track?

Yes, the track has lake 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 Huntsbury Track?

Yes. The closest is Awaroa/Godley Head Campsite, about 12 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.

ModerateChristchurch
4.0 km↑159 m1–1.5 hr★4.5 rating
Shade
Dog verdict: On-lead. Difficulty: Moderate.
HardChristchurch
14 km↑705 m5.5–6 hr★4.0 rating
Shade
Dog verdict: On-lead. Difficulty: Hard.

More in Canterbury

EasyTimaru
5.0 km↑6 m1–1.5 hr★4.5 rating
Swim spotGood with kids
Dog verdict: Off-lead OK. Difficulty: Easy.
EasyChristchurch
1.1 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr
Good with kids
Dog verdict: On-lead. Difficulty: Easy.
ModerateTwizel
23 km↑68 m5.5–6 hr★3.2 rating
Swim spot
Dog verdict: On-lead. Difficulty: Moderate.
EasyTwizel
8.2 km↑22 m1.5–2 hr★4.1 rating
Swim spotShadeSealed underfoot
Dog verdict: On-lead. Difficulty: Easy.

See every dog-friendly track in Canterbury →

Log this hike+109 XP

Save and Been here stay on this device, no account needed, and show up on your hikes. Logging on the live map plants Banks’ paw on the trailhead and awards XP.