7 Dog-Friendly Short Walks Near Christchurch

We’re spoiled for choice with dog-friendly hikes near Christchurch, so pack the leash and head out to do some exploring with your pup.

If you’re keen for some fresh scenery that isn’t too far away and won’t take a whole day, these seven below offer just the right amount of work to reward ratio. Short walks are great for tired human legs, but also help accustom older or less active dogs to bigger walks, so start here if you’re wanting to get ole Red into some longer hikes or overnighters. There are plenty of others around the Christchurch City area, so be sure to explore those, too.

Lyndon Saddle, Craigieburn | 1.5 hours one way, 2.3km
Walk through grassy terraces and regenerating mountain beech forests as you climb to the saddle.
Hut Creek Walk, Craigieburn | 1 hour return, 1.2km
For some interesting flora, walk along this short trail used for trial planting by the Forest Research Institute from 1956 to the mid-1970s.
Conical Hill, Hanmer Springs | 1 hour return
This is a pretty walk from the centre of town to the top of Conical Hill, providing a spectacular lookout of the valley and mountains.
Waterfall Walk - Hanmer Springs | 2.5 hour return
Climb steadily through mountain beech forest before reaching the 41-metre high Dog Stream waterfall. Take the alternative Spur Track route for an extra half hour of walking.
Saddle Hill Summit Track, Banks Peninsula | 1.5 hours return, 1.6km
Follow a short climb through old sheep yards to a long basin before reaching the trig at the top. Here, you’ll enjoy the views over Akaroa Harbour and down to Christchurch. A very easy climb, and one that took Trapper just under an hour.
Wooded Gully Loop Walks, Mt Thomas Forest Conservation Area | 1-2 hour return
With three options to choose from, the Mt Thomas Forest Conservation Area is a great spot to get some fresh air. Plenty of native rimu to feast your eyes on and easy walking tracks make these walks great options for the whole family.
View Hill Car Park to Ryde Falls, Oxford Forest Conservation Area | 1.5 hours one way, 3km one way
A great walk with the highly rewarding five-tiered waterfall Ryde Falls, this walk traverses through forest before descending into Coopers Creek and ending at the falls.