1. Home
  2. See & do
  3. Dog friendly

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.

Filter by
Map
Displaying 41 - 50 of 56
  • Hot pools

    Otumuheke Stream

    Unwind following a day full of adventures by taking a dip in the thermally-heated Otumuheke Stream's mineral-laden waters while watching New Zealand's longest river flow by.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • 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.

  • Biking trails

    Whakaipo Section (Great Lake Trails)

    The Whakaipo Section of the Great Lake Trails is made up of the W2K Trail and the Headland Loop Trail.

  • 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.

  • Scenic attraction

    Hot Water Beach

    As the name suggests, Hot Water Beach is an incredible slice of lake frontage where you can enjoy steaming hot water straight from a natural geothermal spring! With views over the water and to the mountains - you won’t find a more scenic foot spa anywhere else in the world.

  • Airport shuttles

    FourB - Great Lake Trails Shuttles

    Shuttle transfers for all sections of the Great Lake Trails in Taupo including booking the water taxi transfer from the Waihaha section in the Western Bays of Lake Taupo.

    $69 - $150 Book now
  • Biking trails

    The Maraetai Trail

    Explore the Maraetai Trail, starting right next to the Whakamaru Dam. This scenic route takes you through the historic Whakamaru switching station and ascends gently above the river. Wander through paths lined with pine trees and pass by peaceful farmlands where sheep and livestock graze. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in nature and local history.

  • Biking trails

    Craters Mountain Bike Park

    Craters MTB Park is a purpose-built mountain bike park located only a short distance from Taupō town, with trails ranging from children’s entry-level to technical cross-country and downhill trails.

Get Taupō stories and deals straight to your inbox!

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.  

Dog Friendly

Coya’s top tails in dog friendly Taupō 

Dog Friendly

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

Alex & Coya - Dog Friendly Taupo Trails
Dog Friendly

The tail of a Taupo trail dog 

Share your #LoveTaupō stories with us

  1. Home
  2. See & do
  3. Dog friendly