Wherever shall we go now…

Favourite Dog-Friendly Walks in Christchurch

also fun for the dogless

I thought it was only right to start my foray into all of this with a post about my own home, Christchurch, New Zealand. One of the things I love to do is enjoy this pretty Garden City walking our family dog Marley, a six-year-old cocker spaniel who will bounce around and ends up doing three times the distance that I do, as well as finding every possible waterhole for a quick dip. I on the other hand, am of decidedly average fitness, have one slightly dodgy knee and am definitely about the journey rather than hoofing it to the end point. Usually Marley and I walk with friends or family so there is also a lot of looking at the view, plants and chatting involved as well…

This list began as our favourite dog-friendly tracks, but the truth is these are simply great Christchurch walks. If you’re visiting from out of town, you don’t need a dog to enjoy them — they’re all within 30 minutes of the CBD, scenic, easy to moderate in effort, and each takes between 30 and 90 minutes (for us). Perfect for travellers who want a taste of local spots without committing to a full-day tramp.

So here are ten of our best — with a note on what makes them worth it for any walker, plus a little “Marley note” on what dogs (and their humans) should know. I have actually included a few that don’t allow dogs because I couldn’t leave them off the list!

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Godley Head short loop

• Time: 75–90 mins, clifftop track
• Scenery: Ocean cliffs, WWII bunkers, seabirds
• Why it’s worth it: Wild coastal drama, with history thrown in. The kind of walk that makes you stop for “just one more photo.” Get back in the car and keep driving around the headland for a coffee in Lyttleton.
• Marley note: On-lead — there are sheep and protected wildlife. But still a stunner of a walk for us both.
  

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Victoria Park, Port Hills

• Time: 60–90 mins, some hills
• Scenery: Sweeping views across the city and Canterbury Plains
• Why it’s worth it: This is the walk where you stop and go “ahh, that’s Christchurch.” The views really are that good.
• Marley note: Off-lead areas galore, but watch for cyclists who come flying past. No water here, unless you count the dog bowl back at the car.
  

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Halswell Quarry Park

• Time: 45–60 mins, easy loops
• Scenery: Old quarry cliffs, gardens, big skies
• Why it’s worth it: Close to town but feels wide open and peaceful. There’s heritage tucked in amongst the greenery and plenty of space for a picnic.
• Marley says: Big off-lead areas, plus a fully fenced dog park for zoomies. No streams, but plenty of grass to roll in.
  

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Bottle Lake Forest

• Time: 60–90 mins, sandy forest tracks
• Scenery: Pine forest leading to the beach
• Why it’s worth it: One of those “am I really this close to the city?” places. Tall pines, soft tracks, and the ocean waiting at the edge.
• Marley note: Heaven. Off-lead most of the way and a salty dip at the end.
  

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Sumner Esplanade to Cave Rock

• Time: 30–45 mins, flat
• Scenery: Seaside village, surf beach, Cave Rock
• Why it’s worth it: Classic coastal vibes. Stop for an ice cream, people-watch, and take in the sea air.
• Marley note: Dogs are allowed on parts of the beach (seasonal rules apply), but the promenade is always fair game for a stroll.
  

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Hagley Park Loop

• Time: 60–75 mins, flat and leafy
• Scenery: Botanic gardens, Avon River, big old trees
• Why it’s worth it: This is Christchurch’s heart. You’ll see rowers, joggers, picnickers, and flower beds all in one go.
• Marley note: Plenty of off-lead space but no fenced park. He loves spots he can jump in the river
  

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Barnett Park to Lyttelton Rock Pools Track

• Time: 60–90 mins, uneven at times
• Scenery: Cliffs, bush, and dramatic harbour views
• Why it’s worth it: A little wild, a little hidden, and definitely worth the effort for the scenery.
• Marley note: Best on-lead here — wildlife and steep bits mean it’s not the place for a mad dash.
  

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Riccarton Bush

• Time: 30–40 mins, flat boardwalks
• Scenery: Ancient kahikatea forest right in the city
• Why it’s worth it: This is like stepping into another world. Birds, native bush, and a sense of history all in one.
• Marley note: Sorry mate, dogs aren’t allowed here — but for visitors it’s too special to skip.
  

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Rapaki Track

• Time: 60–90 mins return, steady uphill
• Scenery: Big reward views over Lyttelton Harbour
• Why it’s worth it: A favourite with locals. It’s a climb, but not brutal — and the view at the top makes it all worthwhile.
• Marley note: On-lead, this track is busy with bikes and runners.
  

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Travis Wetland Walkway

• Time: 45–60 mins, flat
• Scenery: Wetlands, birdlife, boardwalks
• Why it’s worth it: Peaceful, lush, and a different kind of Christchurch landscape — all water and reeds and birdsong.
• Marley note: On-lead only, to keep the birds safe. Still plenty of sniffs to keep him occupied.
  

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