Exercising your dog can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors. This is a guide to where dogs are permitted on public conservation lands managed by DOC.
Conservation lands are places where New Zealand’s unique plants, animals and heritage are protected. Please help us look after our native wildlife by taking your dog only to approved dog areas.
Note: This is a guide. Access conditions change. Always check with the nearest DOC visitor centre for notices about dog access and track closures before you set out.
Discover why dogs are not always allowed on DOC managed conservation land and what happens if you ignore guidelines.
Find out what is meant by open dog areas, controlled - by permit and controlled - no access.
Discover conservation areas where you can walk your dog.
You can take guide dogs and mobility assistance dogs into controlled dog areas and you do not need a permit for any public conservation land.
Conditions for hunting dogs being taken onto DOC managed conservation land, including information about permits.
When enjoying a day in the park with your dog, please follow these simple guidelines.
Controlled dog areas in Northland have been established to protect wildlife vulnerable to attack or disturbance by dogs.
Most conservation reserves managed by DOC in the Auckland region are closed to dogs. Dogs on leads are allowed access to a few areas.
In the East Coast/Hawke's Bay region dogs are not allowed in most scenic reserves, conservation or forest parks or named conservation areas unless owners have obtained a permit from DOC.
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Planning a trip in the backcountry? (PDF, 485K)
Where can I walk my dog?
Stop the spread of didymo
Check, Clean, Dry all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.
Safety information
Always contact the nearest visitor centre for the latest information about facilities and conditions.
