New Zealand is made for adventures - from scenic road trips to endless beaches, trails, and mountains. And for many of us, our dogs are family, which means they come along for the ride. But travelling with dogs isn’t always as simple as throwing them in the back seat. Between muddy paws, safety concerns, and long drives, it’s important to be prepared.
Here’s your ultimate guide to stress-free, fun, and safe adventures with your four-legged best friend.
🚙 Preparing Your Car for Dog Travel
Before you hit the road, you’ll want to make sure your car is ready for the journey. Dogs bring love (and a little mess!) so protecting your seats and ensuring their comfort is key.
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Car Seat Covers → A must-have for Kiwi dog owners. They protect against muddy paws, hair, and scratches while keeping your dog comfy. (Our Holly’s Paws Car Seat Covers are water resistant, easy to fit, and trusted by 2,000+ owners nationwide.)
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Pet Seat Belt or Harness → Keeps your pup secure and prevents distractions while driving.
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Blankets or Cushions → For added comfort on long drives.
🐶 Safety First
In New Zealand, it’s your responsibility to make sure your dog is safe during car journeys. A loose dog can be dangerous to both you and them.
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Always clip them in with a dog seat belt.
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Avoid letting them ride in the front seat (airbags can cause injuries).
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Take regular breaks on long trips to let them stretch, drink water, and go to the toilet.
🥾 Dog-Friendly Destinations in NZ
New Zealand is full of dog-friendly spots. Here are some favourites:
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Wellington → Oriental Bay and Red Rocks are great for seaside walks.
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Auckland → Takapuna Beach and Meola Reef Dog Park.
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South Island → Queenstown trails, Wanaka lakefront, and Christchurch’s Spencer Park.
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Hidden Gems → Karori dog parks in Wellington, or Bay of Plenty’s Papamoa Beach.
Always check local council rules for leash areas and off-leash zones.
👜 Packing Checklist for Your Dog
Make sure you’ve got everything your pup needs:
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Fresh water + collapsible bowl
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Leash and harness
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Poo bags (always!)
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Treats for training or rewards
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Their favourite toy or blanket for comfort
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A towel for drying off after swims or muddy adventures
🌸 Seasonal Tips
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Spring/Summer: Be mindful of heat — never leave your dog in the car unattended.
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Autumn/Winter: Pack an extra blanket and towel for wet or muddy trips.
💛 Make Every Ride Stress-Free
Travelling with your dog should be fun, not stressful. With the right gear and planning, you can enjoy clean seats, safe travels, and a happy pup.
👉 Explore our Car Seat Covers — trusted by thousands of Kiwi dog owners for road trips, daily commutes, and everything in between.
[Shop Car Seat Covers → click here]
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