Dog Friendly Walks and Camping in Tekapo

If your dog’s idea of a good time is sniffing new trails, chasing lake breezes, and curling up under the stars, then Lake Tekapo is calling your name (and theirs). Dogs are warmly welcomed here, with several off and on leash-required walks and the dog-friendly camping facilities at Lakes Edge Holiday Park. This guide will help you plan the perfect adventure with your four‑legged friend.

1. Why Tekapo is Great for Dogs

• Dedicated dog-friendly campsite: Lakes Edge Holiday Park has  dedicated powered and non-powered sites reserved just for pets, complete with nearby showers, a kitchen, laundry, and toilets - separated from the main campground so everyone can relax.

• Regional park with dog park: At Lake Tekapo Regional Park, you’ll find a fully fenced off-leash dog park, plus 24 km of walking/cycling tracks through pine forest and lakeside scenery - all dog-friendly.

2. Top Dog-Friendly Walks Around Tekapo

Tekapo Lakeshore Walkway (Easy, beachside, leash)

• A scenic 1 hour loop along the eastern lakeshore, past the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and hydro canal.

• Flat, paved surfaces - perfect for dogs and owners of all fitness levels.

Willow Bay Trail (Easy, leash) 1.2km

• A peaceful lakeside walk from the Regional Park to Willow Bay.

• Dogs are welcome on-leash along the trail.

Cowans Hill Walkway (Easy, leash) 6km

• A 6 km loop with open views, pine forest, with an amazing bench view at the top of the hill.

• Dogs are welcome on-leash. A great option for sunrise or sunset walks.

3. Camping With Your Dog at Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park makes it easy with a dedicated dog-friendly camping area designed to keep tails wagging and owners relaxed.

Facilities

• 13 powered + 11 non‭powered dog-friendly sites

• Shared amenities: four toilets, two showers, kitchen and laundry, and free Wi Fi 

Booking & Rules

• Book in advance - spots are limited, and no dogs allowed from 15 Dec–15 Jan.

• Dogs must be non‭aggressive, on leash or enclosed, cleaned up after, and not inside communal buildings.

• Freedom camping is not allowed, so stay at official sites like Lakes Edge.

4. Tips for a Great Dog Trip

• Bring essentials: leash, waste bags, poop scoop and water bowl.

• Stay weather-smart: pack warmer gear even in summer - high country weather is changeable.

• Peak season: Mid‑Nov to Dec sees stunning lupin blooms but you will see more tourists - stay vigilant.

• Respect Dog Park Rules: supervise your pet, practice good recall and always pick up mess.

 

5. Post-Walk: Eat, Relax & Stargaze

• Refresh with coffee or lunch at lakeside cafes that offer outdoor seating for dogs on‑leash.

• Even though dogs can’t join the tours, you can still decompress with them under the starry skies of the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve right outside your camper van.

Your Dog-Friendly Tekapo Trip

Lake Tekapo is the ultimate pet-friendly escape - offering easy lakeside walks, stunning alpine views, a fenced dog park, and comfortable camping at Lakes Edge Holiday Park. Don’t forget your dog’s leash, waste bags, and camera for those lupins and starry nights!