Top 10 Pet-Friendly Cafes in NZ: A Guide for Kiwi Dog Lovers


New Zealanders are known for their love of coffee — and their pets. Thankfully, the café culture here embraces both. Across the country, more and more cafés are opening their doors (and outdoor spaces) to four-legged customers, offering everything from doggy treats to puppuccinos.

Whether you're strolling through the city or adventuring in the countryside, here’s a curated list of the best pet-friendly cafés in NZ that go the extra mile for you and your furry companion.


1. The Botanist – Wellington

Location: 219 Onepu Road, Lyall Bay, Wellington

Why It's Great: Overlooking Lyall Bay Beach, this plant-based café is a favourite among Wellington’s beachgoers — dogs included. The Botanist has a large dog-friendly patio and is just minutes from a popular dog beach.

Pet Perks: Outdoor dog area, puppuccinos, access to Lyall Bay dog beach

Pair It With: A sunny morning at the beach followed by brunch

2. Addington Coffee Co-op – Christchurch

Location: 295 Lincoln Road, Addington, Christchurch

Why It's Great: This ethically focused café with a strong community spirit is popular among dog lovers. Their outdoor tables are spacious, and there's even a dog water station by the entrance.

Pet Perks: Outdoor tables, dog water station, chilled community vibe

Pair It With: A visit to the Christchurch Farmers’ Market with your pup in tow

3. The General – Mount Maunganui

Location: 19B Pacific Avenue, Mount Maunganui

Why It's Great: A trendy spot near the beach, The General is loved by locals for its food and inclusive atmosphere. They offer shaded outdoor seating for dogs and are a stone’s throw from the Mt Maunganui dog beach.

Pet Perks: Shaded patio, dog beach nearby, dog bowls provided

Pair It With: A beach run followed by brunch with your furry friend

4. Eighthirty – Auckland (Ponsonby)

Location: 35 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland

Why It's Great: Tucked into one of Auckland’s trendiest suburbs, Eighthirty’s flagship location is sleek and sustainable, with a sunny outdoor area that welcomes dogs. Ideal for coffee-loving dog parents.

Pet Perks: Friendly to dogs, outdoor space, chilled urban energy

Pair It With: Boutique shopping along Ponsonby Road

5. Flock Café – Gisborne

Location: 80 Childers Road, Gisborne

Why It's Great: With a relaxed surf-town vibe, Flock is known for delicious food and their welcoming attitude toward both two- and four-legged guests. A must-visit after a morning surf or dog beach trip.

Pet Perks: Dog bowls, chilled locals, casual courtyard

Pair It With: A beach walk along Waikanae Beach

6. Urban Espresso Lounge – Whangārei

Location: 110 Bank Street, Whangārei

Why It's Great: Popular with locals and tourists alike, this café has a large outdoor area perfect for dogs, and even offers the occasional dog biscuit or treat for visiting pups.

Pet Perks: Spacious patio, water bowls, pet-friendly service

Pair It With: A visit to the Hātea Loop Walk nearby

7. Geeks on Sainsbury – Mount Albert, Auckland

Location: 55 Sainsbury Road, Mount Albert, Auckland

Why It's Great: Geeks on Sainsbury is a dog-friendly café known for its outstanding coffee and waffles. They welcome dogs and provide a comfortable outdoor seating area.

Pet Perks: Dog-friendly outdoor seating and a relaxed atmosphere

Pair It With: A walk in nearby parks or a visit to local shops

8. Ozone Coffee Roasters – Grey Lynn, Auckland

Location: 18 Westmoreland Street West, Grey Lynn, Auckland

Why It's Great: Ozone Coffee Roasters is very dog-friendly, allowing dogs inside and offering great food with an open kitchen in the middle.

Pet Perks: Indoor seating for dogs and a welcoming environment

Pair It With: Exploring the vibrant Grey Lynn neighborhood

9. The Wharf – Gisborne

Location: 40 Esplanade, Gisborne

Why It's Great: The Wharf is a dog-friendly waterfront restaurant where dogs are welcome at shaded outside tables with views overlooking Gisborne's inner harbor.

Pet Perks: Shaded outdoor seating for dogs and scenic views

Pair It With: A walk along the waterfront

10. The Garden Shed – Mount Eden, Auckland

Location: 470 Mount Eden Road, Mount Eden, Auckland

Why It's Great: The Garden Shed offers a cozy, garden-themed setting with a dog-friendly outdoor area. It's a great spot to relax with your pup after a walk in the nearby park.

Pet Perks: Dog-friendly outdoor seating and a tranquil garden atmosphere

Pair It With: A visit to Mount Eden Domain


Final Thoughts

Taking your dog out for brunch or coffee is more than just convenient — it's a lifestyle. These ten cafés across New Zealand prove that dog-friendly doesn’t have to mean second-best. From beachside patios to urban coffee hubs, these places make sure both you and your pup are well looked after.

Sources:
Pet-friendly café reviews on Google Maps & Tripadvisor
Instagram location tags and café social profiles
Local dog owner forums and community posts