Dog-Friendly Auckland, NZ: Beaches, Parks & Places to Eat

Ready to set sail for an adventure with your best bud? Auckland, New Zealand’s glorious “City of Sails,” is packed with adventures for furry friends and their human companions. Whether you’re a local pet parent mapping out new escapades or dreaming of house sitting in Auckland with a pooch pal, our guide has you covered.

We’ll explore stunning beaches, bustling cafes, cozy pubs, and more, all of which embrace their four-legged customers!

Dive in to discover the very best of dog-friendly Auckland – and we’ll even point pawrents in the direction of the perfect Auckland pet sitter, for those times you need to explore solo.

Dog-friendly beaches, Auckland

Sun-kissed fur, salty breezes, and the joy of a good splash – it’s all happening at Auckland’s dog beaches! Here are some of the top sandy spots where furry friends can run, play, and soak up the New Zealand scenery. Remember to check local signage, as rules can vary by season to protect precious wildlife.

Takapuna Beach

This is a firm favorite for many Aucklanders, offering stunning views towards Rangitoto Island and beautiful white sand. During summer (1 December to 1 March), pups can frolic off-leash in the early mornings (before 10 am) and evenings (after 5 pm). In winter, they get more freedom, with off-leash fun from 2 pm to 10 am, while still welcome on-leash outside of these hours.

Location: Auckland 0622, New Zealand

St Leonards Beach

Aim to visit at low tide to make the most of this long stretch of sand, which is a little quieter than some of the other dog-friendly beaches in Auckland. You can walk all the way to Takapuna Beach from here, and furry friends are welcome off-leash all year round!

Location: Auckland 0622, New Zealand

Mairangi Bay Beach

Perfect for a morning or afternoon outing, beautiful views stretch from here to Browns Bay. Pups can enjoy the beach off-leash from 5 pm to 10 am in summer and throughout the winter season. The same rules apply for the nearby reserve area.

Location: Montrose Terrace, Mairangi Bay, Auckland 0630, New Zealand

Milford Beach Reserve

Head here when the tide is out to enjoy the best of this beach, which is off-leash friendly from 5 pm-10 am in summer and 2 pm - 10 am in winter. With soft sand, ample free parking, and convenient toilets by the car park, it’s an easy win for a relaxed doggy day out.

Location: 63 Milford Road, Milford, Auckland 0620, New Zealand

Cornwallis Beach

Located in the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, this beautiful beach has calm waters that are great for doggy paddle – just be mindful of strong currents near the wharf at high tide. Furry friends can enjoy the sand off-leash from sunrise until 9 am, and are welcome on-leash outside these hours.

Location: Pine Avenue, Cornwallis, Auckland 0604, New Zealand

Muriwai Beach

Experience the wild beauty of Auckland’s west coast at Muriwai, a rugged black sand beach famous for its dramatic landscape and stunning sunsets. Four-legged friends are permitted off-leash north of the surf tower, but keep them away from Maukatia/Maori Bay and the southern beach areas.

Location: 458 Motutara Road, Muriwai 0881, New Zealand

Kakamatua Inlet

About an hour’s drive from Auckland CBD, this is well worth the trip for some serious off-leash fun. Kakamatua Inlet is known for its shallow, calm waters and expansive sand flats at low tide, providing the ideal playground for pups to paddle and play.

Location: Huia Road, Cornwallis, Auckland 0604, New Zealand

Dog-friendly restaurants, Auckland

Auckland’s culinary scene is increasingly welcoming to pups, offering a fabulous array of eateries where you can enjoy a delicious meal with your furry companion by your side.

The Paw Bar & Eatery Parnell

Furry friends can join in the fun here – humans can enjoy nibbles and dog-themed cocktails, and pups can feast on special treats from their very own dog menu, complete with puppy beer and patties.

Location: 225 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland 1052, New Zealand

Wynyard Pavilion

Known as ‘The Pav,’ this spot welcomes dogs in its outdoor areas and garden bar. Enjoy everything from tasty brunch plates to meaty mains (with great veggie options) and late-night bites. The Pav truly adores pups, even hosting special “Dog Days” complete with treats, training demos, and giveaways!

Location: 17 Jellicoe Street, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

The Garden Shed

Bold, honest food is made using local, seasonal ingredients at The Garden Shed. Plus, humans and their furry friends are made to feel right at home, whether dining inside or out!

Location: 470 Mount Eden Road, Mount Eden, Auckland 1024, New Zealand

The Conservatory

Everyone’s welcome at The Conservatory, which serves homemade pub-style meals crafted from fresh ingredients.

Location: E1/17 Jellicoe Street, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Dog-friendly cafes, Auckland

You’ll find cafe culture at its finest in Auckland, especially since many of its best coffee shops are thrilled to welcome furry friends.

Dear Jervois

A beloved spot in Herne Bay, Dear Jervois has friendly staff, an all-day menu of Mediterranean-style dishes, and specialty coffees. It’s no surprise they have a host of regulars, including four-pawed pals!

Location: 234 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland 1011, New Zealand

Circus Circus

This lively, circus-themed setting is a quirky place to grab a bowl of coffee (yes, you read that right) and fresh, local fare. Oh, and the staff go out of their way to make doggos feel at home!

Location: 447 Mount Eden Road, Mount Eden, Auckland 1024, New Zealand

Ozone Coffee

Dog-friendly inside and out, this is the place to come for coffee just the way you like it! Ozone Coffee combines exceptional brews with a delicious food menu, all while focusing on sustainability, local suppliers, and zero waste.

Location: 1/18 Westmoreland Street West, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021, New Zealand

Woolfy’s

After a stroll along the East Tamaki River, head to Woolfy’s for a well-deserved break. They’ll have bowls of water and a puppucino at the ready for your pooch, while you choose from their menu of breakfast and lunch classics.

Location: 5 Cryers Road, East Tāmaki, Auckland 2013, New Zealand

Crave

Crave’s spacious verandah is the perfect spot to linger over brunch with your best bud (furry or otherwise!). Indulge in their famous ricotta hotcakes, an open chicken sandwich, or one of their refreshing raw smoothies.

Location: 6 Morningside Drive, Morningside, Auckland 1025, New Zealand

Takapuna Beach Cafe

This bustling breakfast and lunch spot is a huge hit, especially for dog lovers! Expect puppuccinos and dog treats galore, all enjoyed with stunning sea views from their popular, dog-friendly patio.

Location: 22 The Promenade, Takapuna, Auckland 0622, New Zealand

Cornwall Park Cafe

Conveniently located for a post-stroll refuel, Cornwall Park Cafe serves a selection of dishes to suit everyone’s taste, from small sweet treats to bigger plates of food. Order food using the QR code, so you can stay at your outdoor table with your pooch pal.

Location: Cornwall Park Pōhutukawa Drive, Epsom, Auckland 1051, New Zealand

Dog-friendly pubs, Auckland

Raise a glass to good times with your best bud! Auckland’s dog-friendly pubs serve craft beers, delicious food, and a warm welcome for both you and your canine companion.

Hoppers Garden Bar

There’s plenty of space for humans and their four-pawed pals in this dog-friendly restaurant bar, with 18 craft beers on tap, fine wines, and an exciting array of sharing plates. Be sure to check out Dogs of Hoppers on Insta!

Location: 134b Ponsonby Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1011, New Zealand

Rosanna’s Garden Bar and Eatery

Furry friends can snuggle into the dog bed out in the courtyard, or even join their humans inside! Small plates and sharing platters accompany the extensive menu of beer, wine, G&Ts, and cocktails, with plenty of non-alcoholic options, too.

Location: 503b New North Road, Kingsland, Auckland 1021, New Zealand

Pocket Bar & Kitchen

Although this bar is dog-friendly every day of the week, their “Dog and Grog” Saturdays are extra hospitable, with activities for pup lovers and their pooches, and plenty of opportunities to make new furry friends.

Location: 592 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021, New Zealand

The Zookeeper's Son

Pups are welcome in the relaxing outdoor area, where a range of entrees and mains can be enjoyed alongside a selection of drinks. This pub is also known for its food and drink deals, quiz nights, live music, and sports on the big screen.

Location: 715 Mount Albert Road, Royal Oak, Auckland 1023, New Zealand

Northcote Tavern

A popular, family-friendly spot, the Northcote Tavern serves delicious food and a great range of beer. Despite being busy, there’s plenty of room for everyone – kids and pups included.

Location: 37 Queen Street, Northcote Point, Auckland 0627, New Zealand

Monte Cecilia Park, Auckland

Other dog-friendly activities, Auckland

There’s more to explore in Auckland beyond the usual dog walks and cafes!

Take a day trip to Waiheke Island

Furry friends can ride the ferry for free to Waiheke Island! Once there, the pair of you can enjoy a stroll on Oneroa Beach, a hike along scenic cliff edges, and a bite to eat at dog-friendly spots like The Courtyard. Don’t miss the island’s dog-friendly wineries, including Man O' War Vineyards and The Heke Kitchen, Brewery & Distillery.

Location: Auckland, New Zealand

Shop for plants at Kings Plant Barn, Stonefields

Bring your furry friend along to browse this garden center, which has everything from interior trinkets to a cafe. To make sure they’re ready for the shopping trip, take Fido for a walk along the Stonefields Heritage Walkway Trail beforehand to tire them out. There’s also another dog-friendly Kings Plant Barn over in St Lukes.

Location: 86 Lunn Avenue, Mount Wellington, Auckland 1072, New Zealand

Waiheke Island, Auckland

Tips for pet parents in Auckland, NZ

Come prepared

Always carry everything your furry friend might need when out and about. This includes their leash, plenty of poop bags, a portable water bowl, and a muzzle if you plan to use public transport (which requires them).

Respect the rules

Dog rules in Auckland are designed to keep everyone safe and protect wildlife. Always check local signage at parks, beaches, and any indoor spaces. If you can’t see clear signs, it's always best to check the Auckland Council website for the most up-to-date information.

Plan ahead for time away

Planning a trip away and can’t take your furry family member? Leave them safe and happy at home with a verified pet sitter, who’ll give them all the care and attention they’re used to while you’re away.

Find out more

Tips for pet sitters in Auckland, NZ

Take public transport

Pooch pals are welcome on trains and buses in Auckland, so long as they’re on a leash and wearing a muzzle. They travel for free, but only one pet is allowed per passenger.

Be prepared for varied terrain

Auckland’s landscape is incredibly diverse, from flat city parks to hilly suburbs and rugged west coast beaches. Be ready for different walking conditions, and always carry plenty of water for you and your pooch pal, especially during Auckland’s humid summer season.

Explore Auckland as a house and pet sitter

Find out what life’s like for Auckland locals by exchanging in-home pet care for a place to stay on your travels. It’s a totally unique travel experience made for pet-loving explorers!