The best dog-friendly walks around Nelson & Tāhunanui

We've put together our top favourite dog-friendly walks around Nelson City and Tāhunanui.

blurry placeholderDogs at Tahunanui Beach sunset

Back Beach, Tāhunanui

Back Beach is off-leash at all times.

Hot tip: Stop by Raglan Roast Tāhunanui beforehand, and have a nosey around Moana SUP, paddleboarding specialists.

Are you visiting with the whole family? Make sure to take advantage of all the things to do around Tāhunanui. There is a hydro slide, bumper boats, SUP and kayak rental, mini golf, a zoo, and more.

blurry placeholderGrampians Reserve by Nelson City Council

Grampians Tracks, The Grampians Reserve

Explore the dog-friendly Grampians Tracks for a scenic walk that both you and your pup will love. These well-maintained trails offer varying difficulty levels among regenerating native grassy scrubs and pine trees complementing mahoe, mamaku, and tawa trees.

Dogs must be on a leash when stock is present. 

Hot tip: Refuel at Melrose Café with a coffee and their famous in-house-made cabinet sweets.

 

blurry placeholderFamily cycling around Nelson Matai River Walkway by Oliver Weber

Maitai River Pathway

A local favourite, the Matai River Pathway is a scenic easy walk along the Matai River. Dogs must be on a leash at all times. Keep an eye on toxic algae during the summer months. Watch this video from Cawthron Institute to know what to look for.

Hot tip: Pair this walk with the iconic Centre of New Zealand walk on Botanical Hill at the start of the Maitai Valley.

blurry placeholderCycling Waimea Inlet on Tasmans Great Taste Trail

Parker's Cove to Tāhunanui Reserve

Part of Tasman's Great Taste Trail, this 1.5km shared cycleway offers stunning views across Tasman Bay to the Western Ranges. It includes a stunning 270m long boardwalk.

Dogs must be on a leash at all times. View on Google Maps.

Hot tip: Make it a loop! Walk either way and return via Back Beach.

Remember to be a responsible dog owner

  • Keep control of your dog at all times.
  • Pick up after your dog - remember to carry doggie doo bags.
  • Keep in mind that some rules change during the summer months.
  • Keep an eye on toxic algae during the summer months. 
  • Keep wildlife safe by knowing where to look out for them while dog walking on beaches.

Your dog friendly base awaits

blurry placeholderThree of the four suites overlooking the pond to the west and the ocean to the east.

The Waters

The Waters is a boutique bed and breakfast set above Tasman's Kina Cliffs. We have four beautifully appointed suites offering spectacular panoramic views over the Tasman Bay. The location is perfect for exploring the Tasman region.
from NZ$605
Silver Partner 
blurry placeholderThe classic Kiwi holiday awaits at Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park

Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park - Campground

Beside the beach camping, just 5km from downtown Nelson. From tents to campervans, 600 campsites spread across 54 acres of parkland. Four-legged guests are welcome in a dedicated pet-friendly zone, from 1 February to 30 November each year.
from NZ$27
Silver Partner 
blurry placeholderClassic Studios open plan living

Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park - Pet friendly Classic Studios

Discover pure seaside comfort at Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park in Nelson - our pet-friendly studio units, just steps from the beach and all the park's vibrant amenities, offer the perfect base for families, groups, and pets to relax and explore.
from NZ$150
Silver Partner 
blurry placeholderThe 22 infinity pool overlooking the Tasman Bay and Moutere Inlet.

Windhover Estate

The Windhover Estate is an exclusive retreat located on the beautiful cliffs of the Kina Peninsula in Tasman, New Zealand. In the heart of the properties own vineyard, overlooking the Tasman Bay and Moutere Inlet with the most spectacular sunsets.
from NZ$650
Bronze Partner 
blurry placeholderThe Barn Ariel

The Barn Cabins & Camping

Beachfront Bach’s, Private Cabins, and Ocean View Campsites all with incredible views of the Abel Tasman Coast. Get out here and start exploring the National Park it's in our front yard.
from NZ$20
 
blurry placeholderFront view of The Station House Motel

The Station House Motel

Enjoy a relaxing stay at our heritage motel, originally the old Police Station in Collingwood. A stones throw from interesting beaches, cafes, stunning walking tracks, museums and Farewell Spit Tours. Free Wi-Fi for every room.
from NZ$120
 
blurry placeholderOrchard View Cottage

Orchard View Cottage

A cosy self contained cottage in a peaceful rural setting. Close to all amenities & activities, just 15 minutes from Kaiteriteri, Marahau and Abel Tasman National Park. Fish for trout from the property or sit, relax and listen to the native birdsong.
from NZ$150
 
blurry placeholderA good place to see the rising or setting of the sun

Clayridge Cottages

Self-contained vacation cottages centrally located between Nelson and the Abel Tasman National Park. Excellent holiday home accommodation with sea views. Close to Mapua and the Moutere.
from NZ$180
 
blurry placeholderAlberta s 10 dog credit Neat Places

Dog-friendly cafés & restaurants

Top spots to dine with your dog.
Find out more