There’s nothing quite like a hit of fresh air and immersing yourself in nature to boost your mood, and taking your furry friend along for the ride makes the ritual all the more enjoyable. Auckland has no shortage of walks and hikes that are easy enough for you and your dog to enjoy together — a number of which we’ve rounded up below.
Mercer Bay Loop
Duration: 1.4km / 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Dog: On leash
A dramatic trail that weaves its way around some of Auckland’s highest sea cliffs in Piha, the views from Mercer Bay track are exceptional. A brilliant way to tire the dog out while enjoying some indulgent aesthetics, be careful on this one after a downpour as it can get slippery.
Dog Park at Meola Reef
Duration: Up to you
Difficulty: Easy
Dog: Off leash
If your canine had a choice on how to spend its days, we’re relatively sure that bolting about at this Point Chevalier dog park would be it. A fenced area in the centre of Meola Reserve, this is true puppy paradise. A fun one for the whole family, just be careful if you’re taking wee ones along as the dogs can get a tad over-excited and aren’t always known for looking where they’re going.
Māngere Mountain Walk
Duration: Up to you
Difficulty: Easy with some steep sections
Dog: Off leash areas
Though most people tend to head out West when they feel like a weekend wander, there is no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had elsewhere. Southbound, Māngere’s Mountain Path (Te Pane o Mataoho / Te Ara Pueru) is one of our top picks. With paths leading around the volcano’s crater and right up to the rim where stretching views of the Manukau Harbour await, it’s a fresh place for you and Fido to explore.
Waikōwhai Walkway
Duration: 10km / 4 hours but you can do smaller sections
Difficulty: Easy-moderate
Dog: Off leash areas
A versatile outing, the sprawling Waikōwhai Walkway offers bush trails, beachfront, off leash areas and more. With an extensive map that covers the entire area and the different trails available for download here, Hillsborough’s coastal walkway is an adventure for all.
Unsworth Reserve
Duration: 5km / About an hour
Difficulty: Easy
Dog: Off leash areas
With a well-maintained trail taking care of your exercise for the day and off-leash areas to give the dog a decent run, Albany’s native-addled Unsworth Reserve provides an excellent day out.
