CAMPING THE KIWI WAY

We always take Pippa with us and she loves the adventures as much as we do. I thought I’d list a few of the resources I’ve found helpful on our travels with our furry family member, but this is by no means a definitive list. Bette Cosgrove

• All the camping apps and DOC camping sites have a filter for searching if pets/dogs are allowed in campsites so choose that option when you search.

• Some campgrounds have pet exclusion policies at certain times of year, some have extra charges for pets, and there are sites with exclusive pet-friendly areas. Check before you go or when you book.

• Listings on stopandstaynz.org indicate if pets are allowed at sites.

• Kiwi Camping has a great directory of campgrounds which accept dogs: ckw.nz/kiwicamping-dogs | kiwicamping.co.nz 

• If you’re an NZMCA member almost all sites allow well-controlled pets and some have fenced dog runs.

• National Parks never allow pets of any kind, even if remaining in the car so don’t take them or risk a hefty fine.

• DOC allow dogs into more areas if they’ve passed the wildlife/avian aversion training:  ckw.nz/doc-kiwi-avoidance

• ckw.nz/kiwi-avoidance.

Websites and apps: 

• you can search for dog-friendly places to stay or visit, dog walking, or advice.

• dogalong.nz. has a website of listings that are pet friendly.

• All the online accommodation sites also have pet-friendly accommodation filters, eg booking.com, Bookabach, Tripadvisor and expedia.com.

• Top 10 holiday parks that allow dogs are listed here: ckw.nz/top-10-dogs.

Walk and hike

For walk and hike listings try these:

• andthedogcametoo.com 

• dogpackapp.com

• alltrails.com/new-zealand/dogs 

• doggies.nz

• ckw.nz/eukanuba-hiking-dogs

• ckw.nz/urbanlist-dog-walks 

• ckw.nz/sharemypet-dog-walks

Crossing Cook Strait

• Both ferry services accept dogs… and yes… if they’re happy you can leave them in your vehicle or there are safe crates in the cargo area.

• bluebridge.co.nz has pet-friendly cabins

• ckw.nz/interislander-pets has restrictions on number of pets in vehicles.

• Both ferries allow service dogs in the passenger area.

Communities

• Communities of other dog owners can also give you the support you need so here’s Facebook pages to look for:

• Pet Friendly Holidays NZ

• Motorhoming with Pets in N.Z.

• Dog Friendly Accommodations New Zealand 

• Pet Friendly Eateries and Accommodation New Zealand

Anxious travellers

• If you have an anxious traveller consider gently trying them in your vehicle for short trips first before any long holiday journey. Transfer their favourite bed or blanket into the vehicle with them. A rescue remedy for pets can help.

• Consider getting advice from the experts like: Canine Friends Pet Therapy— New Zealand caninefriends.org.nz

Safety 

• Always consider safety for your pet with a well designed travelling harness and keeping plenty of water available.

• Opening vents and windows will keep the car cool, and we carry an extra USB rechargeable fan to move the air in the rear of a hot vehicle.

• Because dogs can’t regulate their body temperature cooling mats or collars might also be needed on extra hot days.

• Add ice blocks to water bowls and

• ensure there’s always a shady spot for your pet.

• Some people carry temporary safety fences to create a safe secure outdoor exercise space around their camp site.

Vet needed? 

• If you need urgent veterinary advice and you’re a long way from home there’s a new online triage service to connect you to a nearby vet. See HELPP Vet ◊

Images ©2024 Bette Cosgrove