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Off-lead OKModerate

Otago Central Rail Trail: Lauder Section

Alexandra · Otago · Point to point

↑ 0 m gain↓ 6 m descenthigh 338 msteepest 5 %
DISTANCE5.0 km
DURATION1h
STEEPEST5 %
ROUTEPoint to point
Nearest emergency vetRemarkable Vets (Queenstown) - 24hr emergency, Queenstown~85 min drive · 24/7
03 442 1411
The route

Good to know

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

Open track, carry water for the dogUsually a quiet track

About Otago Central Rail Trail: Lauder Section

Near Alexandra in Otago, Otago Central Rail Trail: Lauder Section runs 5.0 km as a track.

A section of the Otago Central Rail Trail near Lauder in the Manuherikia Valley, on the former railway formation. Easy grade-2 walking on a wide gravel surface through Central Otago's pastoral landscapes.

Expect moderate, near-level going, and takes about 1h to walk.

Dogs are allowed off the lead on this one. DOC’s own wording: “Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times.”.

Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog go off the lead on Otago Central Rail Trail: Lauder Section?

Yes. Otago Central Rail Trail: Lauder Section 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 Otago Central Rail Trail: Lauder Section?

Otago Central Rail Trail: Lauder Section is 5.0 km with barely any climb and takes about 1h.

Hikes nearby

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

Moderate
5.0 km↑8 m1h
Dog verdict: Off-lead OK. Difficulty: Moderate.
Easy
4.9 km↑0 m58m
Dog verdict: Off-lead OK. Difficulty: Easy.

More in Otago

EasyAlexandra
23 km↑20 m5–5.5 hr★4.5 rating
Swim spotShadeGood with kids
Dog verdict: On-lead. Difficulty: Easy.
EasyPort Chalmers
0.3 km↑0 m3m
Dog verdict: On-lead. Difficulty: Easy.
EasyPort Chalmers
1.9 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★5.0 rating
Swim spot
Dog verdict: On-lead. Difficulty: Easy.
EasyQueenstown
4.2 km↑110 m1–1.5 hr★4.3 rating
Swim spot
Dog verdict: On-lead. Difficulty: Easy.

See every dog-friendly track in Otago →

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