Pet-Friendly Road Trip Itinerary in New Zealand: Tips & Essentials

Dreaming of a Kiwi roadie with your furry co-pilot along for the adventure? Whether it’s a pampered Persian or a ball-loving Border Collie in the backseat, building a pet-friendly road trip itinerary in NZ means making sure everyone enjoys the journey, not just the destination.

At Petdirect, we get that your pet is more than just a passenger — they’re part of the whānau. That’s why we’ve put together this guide full of helpful tips, pet travel essentials, and ideas to make your summer road trip tail-waggingly perfect from start to finish.

Plan Ahead With Pet-Friendly Stops

Before you hit the road, take some time to scope out where you can stop for puppy piddle breaks, picturesque strolls, and meals both you and your pet can enjoy. Across New Zealand, many cafés, scenic walking tracks, and even accommodation options are pet-friendly. Websites like Dog Friendly New Zealand or your local council’s dog park listings are great resources.

Don’t forget to plan in regular toilet, play, and hydration breaks. Especially in warmer months, ensuring your pet stays hydrated is key. A great on-the-go solution is one of our dog travel bowls or water bottles to keep water accessible at every stop.

Pack The Essentials For A Safe Ride

Just like we buckle up, our pets need suitable restraints to stay secure and safe while travelling. For dogs, dog car restraints and harnesses are a must. They help protect your pet in the event of a sudden stop and keep them from becoming a distraction on the road.

Cats are usually happiest in a stable, well-ventilated cat carrier. Pop a familiar blanket and one of their favourite toys inside to make it feel like a “home-away-from-home”.

Also remember to pack:

• Any regular pet supplements or medications
• Clean-up essentials for those ‘oopsie’ moments
• Tasty treats for positive reinforcement on the go

Choose Pet-Friendly Accommodation

More motels, B&Bs, and holiday parks around the motu are welcoming pets with open arms. Look for pet policies ahead of time on booking websites and always confirm details by phone or email. It’s also a good idea to pack portable bedding or a crate so your pet has a familiar place to curl up overnight.

For the comfort kings and queens, don’t forget their favourite bedding or travel-sized comforts that smell like home. A happy pet means a better night’s sleep for everyone.

Keep Your Pet Calm On The Journey

New sights, sounds, and smells can be overwhelming for some animals. To help ease travel stress, consider calming essentials for anxious pets such as pheromone sprays, treats or supplements that promote relaxation.

If your dog is new to car travel, get them used to small trips ahead of your holiday — a few positive rides around the block can make a big difference.

Make It Fun For Fur & Family

Your roadie buddy wants fun just as much as you! Bring along their favourite dog toys or cat entertainment to break up longer stretches of driving. When planning your destinations, consider beaches, walking tracks, and pet-friendly cafes where your companion can burn off some energy or bask in the sun.

If you’re travelling with a breed like a Border Collie or Labrador, regular exercise will be key for keeping them content on the road. Look for spots where leash-free exploration is safe and allowed by local bylaws.

Final Travel Tips From Petdirect

Before you set off:

• Visit your vet for a pre-trip check (especially if your pet has health concerns)
• Top up on flea and worm treatments before you leave
• Add some NZ made pet food to their travel diet for homegrown goodness
• Use our Autodeliver service to ensure you’re never without the essentials, even on the road

And remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. So stop often, play lots, and create memories with your pet that will last fur-ever.

Ready To Hit The Road?

Whether it’s your first trip or your fiftieth, travelling with pets in New Zealand can be an unforgettable joy — with the right preparation. From travel gear to tail-wagging treats, Petdirect is your go-to guide for all things pet travel. Explore our range, build your itinerary, and make every journey together truly pawsome.

Join Pet Perks today to earn rewards while you shop for your travel checklist. After all, we get pet — and we love nothing more than helping make your life together that little bit easier.