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Love Taupō Great Lake Pathway, Taupō town

Dog friendly Taupo

With over 18 off-leash areas and over 200km of dog-friendly biking and hiking trails across our region, your four-legged best friend is sure to have an epic holiday in Taupo. From cruising to the mighty Huka Falls or sailing to the Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings, or even exploring our boutique shops and world-class dog friendly restaurants and cafes, there is an endless array of activities to do with your canine friend. And finding accommodation for you and your dog is that easy with options right on the lakefront.

Discover why Taupo is the most dog friendly region in New Zealand!

Make memories will all members of your whānau in the Taupō region; that includes your pets! Your fur friends can join you on so many adventures around town. They can visit the marvellous Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings with you on the replica steamboat Ernest Kemp, or cruise by your side to the Huka Falls with Huka Falls Cruise. Or for something totally unique, bring your pets along to explore the geothermal wonderland of Orakei Korako Cave & Geothermal Park. You will never have to leave your fur family members behind while you experience the Taupō region.

Dog friendly activities in Taupō

With world-class hiking and biking trails throughout the Taupō region, you and your pet can enjoy the incredible scenic landscapes, riverside trails, geothermal wonders, and forest parks together. Take in the stunning natural attractions of Taupo like the Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings, Huka Falls, or Orakei Korako with your canine friend at your side.

Wanna bring your pup? Just call ahead of time so the tours and activities are ready for your pooch.

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Hiking & walking trails
Huka Falls Lookout Walk

Take a scenic walk along the banks of the Waikato River, or simply explore the many lookout points at Huka Falls, one of the most visited natural attractions in New Zealand - these short, easy walks are great for kids.
Boat cruises
Kindred Spirit - Maori Carvings Sailing Tour

Escape the hectic of life and experience the beauty of the lake and the Māori Rock Carvings on Lake Taupō's largest charter yacht Kindred Spirit with superior comfort.

$59 - $75 Book now
Biking trails
Tree Trunk Gorge

The Tree Trunk Gorge trail will take you on a picturesque journey through the Kaimanawa Forest Park. It passes through classic central North Island beech forest, across streams and rivers and over two impressive gorges as it tracks along the upper section of the Tongariro River.
Boat cruises
Ernest Kemp Scenic Cruises - Maori Rock Carvings

Daily scenic cruises to the Maori Rock Carvings onboard the Ernest Kemp, a replica steamboat. Ernest Kemp cruises daily all year round - four times during summer and twice in winter. Enjoy stunning Lake Taupo and the carvings on this 2 hour cruise.

$50 - $55 Book now
Hiking & walking trails
Oruatua Walk

At the mouth of the Tauranga-Taupo River in the small village of Oruatua, there are two easy walking tracks to enjoy the river, the native bush of the reserves and the expansive lake views.
Taupō town
Waipāhīhī Botanical Reserve

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the shimmering caldera of Lake Taupō, this sweeping reserve, with its network of trails through different plant collections, is a relaxing haven for visitors.
Volcanic/Geothermal
Orakei Korako Cave & Geothermal Park

Orakei Korako 'The Place of Adorning' - a spectacular Geothermal attraction. Lonely Planet Travellers Guide writes: “Orakei Korako is arguably the best thermal area left in New Zealand".

$57 Book now
Geothermal walks
Spa Thermal Park to Huka Falls walk

Combine two unmissable Taupō destinations on a leisurely stroll alongside the Waikato River, connecting the thermal waters of Otumuheke Stream and the thundering Huka Falls.
Biking trails
Waihaha Section

Discover the Waihaha section of the Great Lake Trails made up of two interconnected trails: the Waihaha Link and the Waihora Link. The Taupō region’s supervolcanic nature is on full display with towering volcanic rock cliffs, breathtaking vistas, and a secluded waterfall nestled within the Waihaha Valley.
Biking trails
The Waipapa Trail

Enjoy narrow forest trails, see historic dam foundations, cross wetland boardwalks, and finish at Waipapa Power Station, featuring technical paths, steep sections, and stunning views of sandstone cliffs and the river. Ideal for adventurous riders seeking a challenging and scenic route.

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Plan your pet friendly holiday to Taupō

Dog Friendly

The ultimutt travel guide to Taupo

Can’t face leaving your furry friend at home? The Taupō region is a dog owner's dream destination with trails, accommodations and activities that cater to your canine companion.