Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

9 Off-Leash Dog Parks in Christchurch, New Zealand (2026 Update)

dog jumping over a log in a forest park in Netherlands

New Zealand is known for being one of the most pet-friendly countries in the world, and Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island of the country, is home to thousands of dogs. This city welcomes canines of all sizes and breeds, and there are many parks where you can walk your furry friend off-leash.

If you live in Christchurch or plan to move here with your dog, make sure you check out the following pet-friendly parks where your dog can exercise off-leash.

divider dog paws 3 oct 2024

The 9 Off-Leash Dog Parks in Christchurch, New Zealand

1. Victoria Park

️ Address: 📍Cashmere, Christchurch 8022, New Zealand
Open Times: 7.30 am daily, with closing times of 6 pm in the winter and 9 pm in the summer
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes
  • Breathtaking views of Christchurch at every turn.
  • This large dog park has grasslands, steep ridges, and natural rock outcrops for you and your dog to explore.
  • Securely fenced area.
  • Fresh drinking water is available.
  • There are dog poo disposal bins.

2. The Groynes Dog Park

️ Address: 📍Groynes Drive, Northwood, Christchurch 8051, New Zealand
Open Times: 8 am daily until half an hour before sunset
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes, but only in the designated dog park
  • Large open spaces with lots of trees and two spring-fed streams for swimming.
  • Inside eight fenced areas, there are three agility and obstacle courses, including one for small dogs.
  • Fresh drinking water is available.
  • Dog poo dispensers and rubbish bins.
  • Wash down area for dogs.

3. Styx Mill Reserve Dog Park

️ Address: 📍130 Hussey Road, Northwood, Christchurch 8051, New Zealand
Open Times: 7.30 am daily, closing at 5.30 pm in the winter or a half-hour before sunset in the summer
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes, but only in a fenced dog exercise area
  • This location is under review as part of the Styx Mill Conservation Reserve’s development.
  • Offers a securely fenced area with many trees, two small ponds (the water quality is variable due to algae), and wide open spaces.
  • The dog pond has a permanent fence surrounding it, and anyone who wants to use it can enter through a gate.
  • There are toilets and plenty of car parking.
  • The dog park is conveniently located in an urban area.

4. Bexley Reserve Dog Park

️ Address: 📍Bexley, Christchurch 8061, New Zealand
Open Times: All day
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes
  • The dog park area at Bexley Reserve is small.
  • It is in the process of being expanded to incorporate planting, drinking fountains for dogs, and climbing obstacles.
  • Fenced enclosure.
  • There are dog poo disposal bins.

5. Horseshoe Lake Dog Park

️ Address: 📍Horseshoe Lake Road, Burwood, Christchurch 8061, New Zealand
Open Times: 24 hours a day
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes
  • Although most of the reserve has been closed since the earthquakes, you can still walk your dog around the outskirts on a leash (off-leash if your pet is well-behaved and comes when called).
  • The park has a safety fence with open space, trees, and agility courses to cater to your pup’s needs.
  • Limited seating.
  • Limited parking.

6. Rawhiti Reserve Dog Park

️ Address: 📍100 Shaw Avenue, New Brighton, Christchurch 8083, New Zealand
Open Times: All day
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes
  • This large park has lots of trees and space for dogs to run around and exercise.
  • Securely fenced area.
  • There is an agility area with A-frames, beams, and tunnels.
  • This dedicated, fenced dog park gives your pup plenty of time to socialize and play with other furry friends.
  • All-day parking.

7. Radley Park

️ Address: 📍Woolston Court, Woolston, Christchurch 8023, New Zealand
Open Times: Open daily, 24 hours
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes
  • Radley Park is home to New Zealand’s first dog agility course.
  • The park is not fenced, so dogs need to be supervised and kept under verbal control or on a leash.
  • There are six medium-height agility obstacles.
  • Owners can run dogs over the A-frame, sprint through the tunnel, and weave in and out of the weaving poles in the agility area.

8. Bottle Lake Forest Park

️ Address: 📍Waitikiri Drive, Bottle Lake, Christchurch 8083, New Zealand
Open Times: Between 7 am and 9 pm year-round
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes
  • Many walking tracks weave their way through the trees in this beautiful 800-hectare pine forest that makes a wonderful, sheltered walk on a hot or windy day because these tracks are almost entirely in the shade.
  • Tracks may be slippery on rainy days.
  • Make sure dogs don’t obstruct mountain bikers for safety reasons.

9. Halswell Quarry Dog Park

️ Address: 📍Kennedys Bush Road, Kennedys Bush, Christchurch 8025, New Zealand
Open Times: 7.30 am to 7 pm and 7.30 am to 9 pm during daylight savings months
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes
  • The park is on the fringe of the city, with many tracks, historic sites, and six sister-city gardens.
  • There are multiple drinking fountains, two toilet blocks, and plenty of parking.
  • Dogs must always be under control because this area is not fenced.

divider dog paws 3 oct 2024

Conclusion

There are nine dog parks in Christchurch, New Zealand, where your pup can be off-leash. Some parks even have fresh drinking water, agility equipment, dog poo disposal bins, and spots to swim.

They are the perfect locations for you and your dog to explore the beauty of this city together. Plus, walking a few times a week is free and one of the easiest ways to become healthier, so don’t skip it!


Featured Image Credit: Jesper Brouwers, Unsplash

Want content like this delivered to you?

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

News, insights, expert advice, and everything dog

* By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.


How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.


Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Can Dogs Eat Watermelon Seeds? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & Info

Watermelon is synonymous with summer. People certainly love it, with the per capita consumption in 2022 at 14.12 pounds.1 It’s an ancient fruit,...

Why Is My Dog Dry Heaving? 5 Common Reasons & What to Do (Vet Answer)

Your dog is heaving at the foot of your bed, and you’re not sure why. Contacting a veterinarian is essential because some of...

Are Heart Murmurs Genetic in Dogs? Causes, Signs & Treatments

While no pet parent wants to hear that their beloved dog has a heart murmur, it’s something that can happen at times. It’s...

Leonberger Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Facts, & Traits

A massive and regal-looking dog breed, the Leonberger might be right up your alley if you’re looking to bring a new pet into...

More related

Are Boxers Aggressive? Vet-Verified Behavior Explained

According to the American Boxer Club, the Boxers’ most notable trait is their innate desire for human affection.1 They’re generally happiest when spending...

250+ Creative Dog Names: Inspired by Art, Fashion, Music & Food

So, you’re bringing home a new puppy, and now you’re tasked with finding a name that suits your sweet new furball. Choosing a...

How to Celebrate Mardi Gras With Your Dog: 10 Festive Tips

Fat Tuesday. Pancake Tuesday. Shrove Tuesday. Mardi Gras has many names because of its ties to many cultures and traditions. It is not...

Labernard (St. Bernard Lab Mixed Dog Breed) Info, Pictures, Care & More

A Labernard is a Labrador Retriever mixed with a St. Bernard. Some people call this designer breed a Bernador, but that can get...

Keep reading

Can Dogs Eat Apples? Vet-Reviewed Nutrition Facts & FAQ

Dogs can eat some fruits and vegetables, and it’s always nice to share a healthy snack with your fluffy companion. One popular snack that dogs and humans can enjoy eating together is apples. Many dog foods and treats use apples...

Can Dogs Eat Apples

Can Dogs Eat Vanilla Wafers? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

Vanilla wafers are not toxic to dogs, although they certainly aren’t the healthiest. Therefore, they aren’t a good option as a treat or snack. If your dog accidentally eats a vanilla wafer, there isn’t much to be concerned about, though....

Can Dogs Eat_vanilla wafers

Inception Dog Food Review 2026: Recalls, Pros & Cons

Review Summary Inception Pet foods is a brand that produces wet and dry food for cats and dogs with animal or fish protein as the first two ingredients in each recipe. Inception is owned by Pets Global, which is based...

Dogster_Inception Dog Food Review

6 Best Air-Dried Dog Foods in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks

Air-dried dog food hasn’t been around on the market for all that long, but it deserves more attention than it’s been given. Often over-shadowed by freeze-dried or dehydrated dog food, air-dried dog food is often overlooked but can stand its...

miniature schnauzer dog eating on the sofa

Sportmix Dog Food Review 2026: Recalls, Pros & Cons & FAQ

Introduction Sportmix is a dog and cat food brand that is owned by Midwestern Pet Foods, which was founded in 1926. This family-owned business is now in its fourth generation and the company prides itself in providing complete and balanced...

Dogster_Sportmix Dog Food Review

Can Dogs Eat Rhubarb? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & FAQ

Since it’s full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, rhubarb is one popular pie ingredient we don’t have to feel guilty about eating. But as much as we enjoy rhubarb, is this tart and tasty garden delight a sensible food for...

Can Dogs Eat Rhubarb

How to Use Dog Food Toppers: Vet-Verified Facts & Types Explained

Dog food toppers can be an excellent way to spruce up your canine’s everyday meal. They can enhance the appetite of the pickiest pooches and add some calories if they’re needed. They can also soften dishes, making it easier for...

Dog waiting for the food

Can Dogs Eat Greek Yogurt? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & FAQ

Dogs are known for wanting whatever their human has, and if you are a dog owner, you will know what we are referring to! No matter what is on your plate, your dog will be at your feet, with its...

Can Dogs Eat_Greek Yogurt