New Zealand is one of those unique destinations that are best discovered on a road trip. But, traveling a country with a car is a big feat, especially if you’re doing it with a dog! There are few things to know about New Zealand before you and your pup embark on your kiwi adventure. From prep to accommodation to dog-friendly locations, learn everything you need to know about your future New Zealand road trip with your adventure dog. 

Make preparations

If this is your first road trip, make sure to start gradually and prepare well. Your dog needs to get used to traveling to avoid anxiety, tummy problems and other health issues. Another thing that you want to do is pack your pupper’s bed, blanket and toys. Dogs rely on familiar scents and their possessions from home will definitely make them feel more calm and comfortable.

Pick the right car

Since you’ll be spending a lot of time in your vehicle, make sure you’re both comfortable. The fact that your dog can’t sit well in a tiny seat (especially if it’s bigger than a Chihuahua) will dictate your choice of vehicle. Luckily, New Zealand is speckled with amazing car rental agencies that offer different vehicles to choose from. From hatchbacks to large vans perfect for longer trips, you can find anything you want. SUVs are extremely practical for road trips because they offer ultimate comfort for both people and animals and can take you across all kinds of terrain. Plus, agencies like Avis Car Rental also have super helpful maps of best NZ road trips. With these, you can discover New Zealand from the tip of the North Island to the mountains of South Island!

Locate dog-friendly accommodation

No matter if you’re planning to stay at hotels, motels or camping sites, it’s always best to check in advance and see whether your accommodation is pet-friendly. Some places claim they are pet-friendly but will ask you to keep your dog in the car, pay extra or limit your dog’s world to a tiny crate. A simple phone call will tell you exactly what you can expect before you arrive. Luckily, there are places that allow you and your dog to have a great night of rest without any limitations.

Visit dog-friendly beaches

People of New Zealand love their animals which unfortunately means there are various wildlife conservation laws that prevent dog access on certain areas—beaches included. You don’t want to arrive at a gorgeous beach and realize you can’t even step on the sand with your furry companion. Most beaches forbid dogs from entering the premises from 9 am to 6 pm which can be very tricky when you have a hot dog in a hot car. So, make sure to study your beaches well in advance or plan your trip so that you arrive before 9 am or after 6 pm. Luckily, there are plenty of beaches that allow you to unleash your pup, play in the water and throw the Frisbee. Locations like Lyall Bay in Wellington are so popular among pet owners that there are meet-ups for pups and owners where you can probably gain many new tips for exploring New Zealand with your dog.

Research national parks

Most national parks anywhere in the world don’t allow dogs due to wildlife. So, if you want to take your pup on exploration trips into nature, make sure to do some thorough research. However, the best thing you can do for both of you is to check your dog into a boarding kennel for the afternoon. For instance, you don’t want to miss exploring Milford Sounds because your dog can’t gain access. So, don’t hesitate to leave it in a friendly kennel or dog condo where your pet can socialize with other dogs and rest properly while you do your thing. Don’t allow yourself to feel guilty that you left your pup for a day—this is your road trip too and you’re allowed to enjoy it.

Know your limits

Both you and your dog have limits that shouldn’t be pushed this far away from home. So, if you think you can’t do one thing, don’t worry! You’ll find another thing you can definitely do and enjoy without stress and anxiety. This will also give you a chance to visit and explore many amazing yet unexpected places you wouldn’t normally consider. For instance, Nelson is one of the most dog-friendly places in New Zealand with an abundance of paths, beaches and other things you can enjoy with your pup. As you advance on your trip, you will learn new things and be able to tailor your travels so that they fit both you and your dog.

Knowing everything you know now, you’ll plan the best road trip that’s completely pet-friendly and fun for humans and dogs alike! Make sure to record many photos from your journey and you’ll have memories you’ll cherish your whole life.