Beach days
dog friendly
Christchurch isn’t what you would call world renown for beaches but New Zealand is an island (or three to be precise) so you are never far from the sea. Here are a few sandy spots to visit if the urge takes you. Whether you’ve got a dog like our cocker spaniel Marley or you’re just looking for pleasant walk and ocean breeze – or you are feeling like braving the water for some body-surfing – generally a bit chilly for me! If you do decide to go for a swim, find the surf life save flags.
Waimairi Beach (New Brighton)
Just 15 minutes from the city centre, Waimairi (which runs on in a big long stretch from New Brighton beach) is one of the easiest beaches to get to. It’s wide, sandy, and perfect for long runs (or, if you’re not into sprinting, long wanders with a coffee in hand). There’s a dedicated dog exercise area here, so you’ll see plenty of wagging tails. Parking is simple, and it’s close enough to nip back into town afterwards.
Sumner Beach
About 20 minutes from central Christchurch, Sumner is more than just a beach — it’s a little seaside village full of character. There are great cafes, fish and chip shops, and that easy-going holiday feel. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed on the main stretch during the busy summer season. If you head east towards Scarborough, you’ll find more space for a good run. Non-dog owners will love the people-watching, the cafes, and that iconic cave walk at low tide.
“Fish and chips smell better than anything. Ever.”
– Marley
Waikuku Beach (30 minutes north)
A bit further out, Waikuku is the kind of spot you head to when you want a quieter, family-style beach day. Dogs are allowed off-leash in certain areas, these are well sign posted, and the wide open sand is great for both flying kites and chasing tennis balls.
Purau Beach (40 minutes from the city)
Tucked away on Banks Peninsula, Purau is small, sheltered, and perfect for a calm swim. It’s not a huge dog-spotting beach, but if you’ve got a pup who likes a dip and you’re after a slower pace, the it’s a lovely rural drive and you can look back across the harbour to Lyttleton, the main port of Christchurch.
Whether you’re four-legged or two, the Christchurch coastline has something for everyone: space to run, waves to splash in, and salty air that leaves you feeling like you’ve had a proper day out.
Things to know before you go
Before you set out, it’s good to know the general dog rules:
- Dogs are usually allowed on the beaches, but in summer (from November to March) they must stay on-leash in patrolled swimming zones.
- Outside those zones, you can let them run free — which is Marley’s idea of paradise.
- Always carry a lead, pick up after your pup, and look out for signs at the beach entrances.
“Signs? I don’t read signs. I pee on them.”
– Marley
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