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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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  • Biking trails

    The Arapuni Trail

    The Arapuni Trail, part of the Waikato River Trails, offers an exhilarating ride through lush native bush and open farmlands, with breathtaking river views. Highlights include the Arapuni Dam, scenic lookouts, ancient rock formations, and the historic Arapuni Power Station and Dam, making it a memorable adventure.

  • 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.

  • Biking trails

    River Side Trail

    The River Side Trail in Taupō is a scenic, two-way path along the Waikato River between Control Gates Bridge and Spa Thermal Park. Ideal for all ages, it offers gentle terrain, stunning river views, and lush native bush. The trail connects to the Rotary Ride and Huka Trails, passes Cherry Island and River Side Reserve, and climbs behind Taupo Bungy, ending at Spa Thermal Park.

  • Theme & leisure parks

    Mind Junction

    All day, all weather activity park. ​A must see Taupo attraction. Bring along the family and get lost in our over 2m high giant maze, confuse yourself in the Science Discovery Centre, marvel at the LEGO display, get in a round of mini golf and more.

    $8 - $40
  • Biking trails

    Waihaha Link

    Situated within the Waihaha Section of the Great Lake Trails, the Waihaha Link Trail begins at the Waihaha River carpark and winds along the Waihaha River towards Lake Taupō. The route offers stunning views of the volcanic terrain, with the impressive Tieke Falls serving as a standout feature

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Motuoapa Cliff Lookout Walk

    An easy short walk to a lookout point with panoramic views over the southern end of Lake Taupo.

  • Biking trails

    Huka Falls to Aratiatia Dam Trail

    This grade 2-3 loop trail is perfect for the whole family. Highlights include river views, the impressive Aratiatia Dam release, stunning native bush and a hidden geothermal stream.

  • Family friendly

    Spa Park - Taupo Disc Golf Course

    Come for a throw at the beautiful Spa Park Disc Golf Course! Choose between the Blue 9-hole course for family fun or challenge yourself on the world-class Red 18-hole course.

  • Biking trails

    Waihaha Hut Track

    The Waihaha Hut Track is set in native forest within the Pureora Forest Park on the western side of Lake Taupo.

  • Hiking & walking trails

    Boyd, Oamaru and Cascade Hut tracks

    You can combine these hiking tracks for a multi-night tramp with lush beech forest, river crossings and wildlife.

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Plan your pet friendly holiday to Taupō

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Coya’s top tails in dog friendly Taupō 

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International Dog Day: Is Taupo the most dog-friendly town in New Zealand? 

Alex & Coya - Dog Friendly Taupo Trails
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The tail of a Taupo trail dog 

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