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Off-lead OKEasy

Tuhawaiki Trot Track

Timaru · Canterbury · Out & Back

↑ 6 m gain↓ 7 m descenthigh 8 msteepest 2 %
DISTANCE5.0 km
ASCENT6 m
DURATION1–1.5 hr
STEEPEST2 %
ROUTEOut & Back
RATING · HIKERS 4.5 · 50
DOG EFFORT1.6 /5 paws
DirectionsApple MapsForecast at the trailheadDownload GPXSend the start point to your phone
Nearest emergency vetChristchurch After Hours Veterinary Centre, Christchurch~170 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 swimOpen track, carry water for the dogGood with kids

About Tuhawaiki Trot Track

Near Timaru in Canterbury, Tuhawaiki Trot Track runs 5.0 km as an out-and-back.

Expect easy going, with around 6 m of climb, pitching up to 2 % at its steepest, and takes about 1–1.5 hr to walk.

Along the way there are beach walking, big views, and wildlife. Dogs are allowed off the lead on this one. Hikers rate it 4.5 / 5 across 50 reviews.

Stay nearby

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

Stay & walk

Pioneer Park Campsite

39.9 km awayCampsite details →
Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog go off the lead on Tuhawaiki Trot Track?

Yes. Tuhawaiki Trot 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 Tuhawaiki Trot Track?

Tuhawaiki Trot Track is 5.0 km with roughly 6 m of climb and takes about 1–1.5 hr.

Is there water for my dog to swim on Tuhawaiki Trot 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 Tuhawaiki Trot Track?

Yes. The closest is Pioneer Park Campsite, about 40 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.

Otipua Wetlands Walk

EasyTimaru
3.9 km↑13 m0.5–1 hr★4.2 rating
Swim spotGood with kids

Salt Water Creek Walkway

EasyTimaru
4.7 km↑0 m1–1.5 hr★4.0 rating
Swim spotGood with kids

Otipua Creek Walkway

EasyTimaru
3.1 km↑3 m0.5–1 hr★4.5 rating
Swim spotGood with kids

Breakwater

EasyTimaru
0.8 km↑1 m10m

More in Canterbury

Scott Pond Track

ModerateTwizel
4.3 km↑51 m1–1.5 hr★3.3 rating
Swim spotShade

South Temple Track

ModerateTwizel
7.0 km↑252 m1h 48m

See every dog-friendly track in Canterbury →

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