The best dog-friendly walks around Nelson & Tāhunanui

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

blurry placeholderMoana SUP Dog Friendly Tahunanui by Aimee Jules

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.