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Off-lead OKModerate

Southern Pegasus Bay Track

Christchurch · Canterbury · Out & Back

↑ 0 m gain↓ 0 m descenthigh 4 msteepest 2 %

DISTANCE12.9 km

ASCENT150 m

DURATION3–3.5 hr

STEEPEST2 %

ROUTEOut & Back

RATING · HIKERS 4.5 · 93

DOG EFFORT2.3 /5 paws

PARKING20 m away

Directions Apple Maps Forecast at the trailhead Download GPX Send 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.

Beach swimForest shade

About Southern Pegasus Bay Track

Southern Pegasus Bay Track is an out-and-back of 12.9 km, near Christchurch in Canterbury.

Graded moderate, it climbs about 150 m overall, pitching up to 2 % at its steepest, and takes about 3–3.5 hr to walk.

Walkers come for beach walking, native forest, and big views. Dogs are allowed off the lead on this one. Hikers rate it 4.5 / 5 across 93 reviews.

Stay nearby

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

Stay & walk

Awaroa/Godley Head Campsite

13.1 km awayCampsite details →Stay & walk

Wooded Gully Campsite

45.2 km awayCampsite details →

Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog go off the lead on Southern Pegasus Bay Track?

Yes. Southern Pegasus Bay 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 Southern Pegasus Bay Track?

Southern Pegasus Bay Track is 12.9 km with roughly 150 m of climb and takes about 3–3.5 hr.

Is there water for my dog to swim on Southern Pegasus Bay Track?

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 Southern Pegasus Bay Track?

Yes. The closest is Awaroa/Godley Head Campsite, about 13 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.

Waimairi Beach Walk

ModerateChristchurch

5.0 km↑3 m1–1.5 hr★4.0 rating

Swim spotGood with kids

New Brighton Pier Walk

EasyChristchurch

0.6 km↑4 m0.5–1 hr★4.2 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

Christchurch 360 Trail: Dunes Wetlands

ModerateChristchurch

16 km↑0 m3.5–4 hr★4.2 rating

Swim spotShade

Bottle Lake Green Track Loop

EasyChristchurch

2.1 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★4.3 rating

Shade