Not a winter person? You’re not alone.
When the days get shorter and the air turns colder, it can feel easier to stay indoors. But for many dogs, winter is still full of energy, curiosity, and excitement. Every walk is a chance to explore, sniff, and move.
Getting outside in winter can help keep your dog active and mentally engaged. It can also support your wellbeing. Fresh air, new places, and shared time together can make a real difference on colder days.
If you are taking part in PAWGUST, your daily walks matter even more. PAWGUST is a 31-day walking challenge that raises funds for Blind Low Vision NZ Guide Dogs. Every kilometre helps support the breeding, raising, and training of guide dogs. These dogs help people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision to live more independently.
New Zealand has many beaches that are great for winter walks with your dog. From long black sand coastlines to calm harbour shores, there are plenty of places to explore.
Before you go, always check local council rules for the beach you plan to visit. Dog access can change depending on:
- Season
- Time of day
- Location on the beach
Rules can also differ across different parts of the same beach.
Make Every Step Count: Register for the PAWGUST challenge to turn your daily winter walks into life-changing independence for others.
Here are 10 dog-friendly beaches worth adding to your winter walking list.
North Island
1. Muriwai Beach, Auckland
Muriwai is a wide west coast beach known for its black sand and strong surf. It is ideal for dogs that love space to run and explore.
If your dog loves to run, Muriwai is hard to beat. This iconic west coast beach is famous for its dramatic black sand, rolling surf, and vast open spaces. With kilometres of coastline to explore, it is an ideal place to clock up some PAWGUST kilometres.
- Dramatic black sand coastline
- Plenty of space for energetic dogs
- Great for longer walks
- Spectacular west coast scenery
Features:
- Long stretches of open beach;
- Big spaces for active dogs;
- Dramatic west coast scenery.
Image credit: Glenn Keelty
2. Orewa Beach, Auckland
Orewa has a long, flat shoreline that is easy to walk. It is a relaxed coastal spot close to the city.
Features:
- Long beachfront;
- Easy walking terrain;
- Sea views along the full coastline.
Join the PAWGUST challenge and walk throughout August to help raise funds for guide dogs in New Zealand.
3. Ocean Beach, Mount Maunganui
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Ocean Beach is a wide, open beach with strong coastal views. It is a great option for longer winter walks.
Features:
- Plenty of open space;
- Scenic Bay of Plenty coastline.
PAWGUST tip: Explore a different route each visit to keep your walks interesting for you and your dog.
4. Lyall Bay, Wellington
Lyall Bay is a lively coastal area close to the city. It is a popular shared space for walkers and surfers.
Features:
- Ocean views and surfers to watch;
- Popular walking route;
- Easy access from central Wellington.
Join the PAWGUST challenge and walk throughout August to help raise funds for guide dogs in New Zealand.
5. Petone Beach, Lower Hutt
Petone Beach is a long harbour beach with a calm and open feel. It is ideal for steady, relaxed walks.
Features:
- Flat walking conditions;
- Wide harbour views.
6. Castlepoint Beach, Wairarapa
Castlepoint is a dramatic coastal destination with a lighthouse and rugged scenery. It is a strong choice for a winter day trip.
Features:
- Iconic lighthouse;
- Long coastal stretches.
Join the PAWGUST challenge and walk throughout August to help raise funds for guide dogs in New Zealand.
South Island
7. Tāhunanui Beach, Nelson
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Tāhunanui Beach is a wide sandy beach close to town. It is popular for relaxed walks and coastal time.
Features:
- Long sandy shoreline;
- Calm coastal setting.
PAWGUST tip: Extend your walk beyond the beach to add extra kilometres to your total.
8. New Brighton Beach, Christchurch
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New Brighton is a long, flat beach with iconic pier views. It is great for building walking distance.
Features:
- Easy walking conditions;
- Views of the pier and coastline.
9. Sumner Beach, Christchurch
Sumner Beach sits between hills and cliffs. It offers a scenic and varied coastal walk.
- Mix of beach and hillside views;
- Popular walking route.
10. St Clair Beach, Dunedin
St Clair is a well-known southern beach with strong surf and open views. It is ideal for a brisk winter walk.
- Wide coastline and long walking stretch.
Are you ready to join the challenge? Sign up for PAWGUST and turn your daily walks this August into life-changing support for guide dogs and the people who rely on them.
You can sign up for the PAWGUST challenge today and start banking your beach kilometres this August!
Walk for a cause, not just the kilometres
Lacing up your shoesboots in the middle of winter is always easier when you are doing it for a purpose. Walking for PAWGUST means that every cold morning, every muddy paw, and every single kilometre logged is directly changing a life. You aren't just exercising your pet , you are supporting the journey of a life-changing guide dog.
Sign up for PAWGUST and raise & your first $48 in 48 hours and get a bandana for your dog.
