
Roland's Wood
A dog-friendly woodland paradise in Kerikeri, featuring seasonal blooms and adventurous trails for all to enjoy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bluebell and floral season

Roland's Wood
Best Time
Peak bluebell and floral season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dog-friendly woodland paradise in Kerikeri, featuring seasonal blooms and adventurous trails for all to enjoy.
"My dog's new favourite walk and we’ll be there many times a week!"

🐾 Watch for Toxic Plants
Be vigilant about toxic lilies and mushrooms; keep dogs on a lead if they're prone to eating things.
🚗 Spot the Hidden Car Park
The entrance can be subtle, appearing like a driveway. Look carefully to find the parking area.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lily and Clivia Blooms
Throughout the wood
Vibrant floral displays, especially in early October, adding stunning color to the natural landscape.

Bluebell Season
Upper areas
Witness a carpet of bluebells in early October for a truly magical woodland experience.

Woodland Adventure
Forest trails
An adventurous hike through the woods, perfect for dogs and families seeking a nature escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Doggy Paradise with a Warning
Navigating the Entrance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Watch for Toxic Plants
Be vigilant about toxic lilies and mushrooms; keep dogs on a lead if they're prone to eating things.
🚗 Spot the Hidden Car Park
The entrance can be subtle, appearing like a driveway. Look carefully to find the parking area.
Dog friendly places in northland/bay of islands
Northland dog-friendly lakes
👟 Slippery After Rain
Trails can be slick, especially by the stream, after wet weather. Wear appropriate footwear.
🐶 Off-Leash Fun
Many dogs enjoy the freedom off-leash, creating a friendly atmosphere for canine companions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Watch for Toxic Plants
Be vigilant about toxic lilies and mushrooms; keep dogs on a lead if they're prone to eating things.
🚗 Spot the Hidden Car Park
The entrance can be subtle, appearing like a driveway. Look carefully to find the parking area.
👟 Slippery After Rain
Trails can be slick, especially by the stream, after wet weather. Wear appropriate footwear.
🐶 Off-Leash Fun
Many dogs enjoy the freedom off-leash, creating a friendly atmosphere for canine companions.
🌳 Favorite Dog Walk
A beloved spot for locals and their dogs, offering a delightful woodland experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Roland's Wood is a beloved woodland park, especially for dog owners, offering beautiful seasonal blooms and an adventurous walking experience. While the car park can be tricky to find and some trails get slippery, the natural beauty and dog-friendly atmosphere make it a highly recommended spot for a refreshing outdoor escape.
"Beautiful place and people! However, if your dog eats everything it can find then be aware that there are a huge number of lily plants which are super toxic for animals, and I did also remove some poisonous mushrooms. I’d love a doggy bin and a water fountain, but overall my dog’s new favourite walk and we’ll be there many times a week!"
Eloise Rose
"A slice of heaven all year round and the dogs and humans who frolic here leave with happy hearts. A must stop while in or near Kerikeri"
Chrissy Herring
"Beautiful area, Magnolia and groups of Clivia and blue bells in flower,so lovely. A wonderful job done with the plantings of colour amongst the old trees. Really great for dog walking. Would be a great walking area any season"
Christine
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Roland's Wood is located in Kerikeri. The car park can be a bit hidden, sometimes looking like a private driveway, so keep an eye out for it.
Information on public transport to Roland's Wood is limited. It's generally recommended to have a car for easier access to this area.
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Roland's Wood. The car park is the primary access point.
Signs can be subtle, and the car park might be shadowed, making it easy to miss if you're not looking closely.
Yes, there is a car park available for visitors. It's important to locate it carefully upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Roland's Wood is a park and generally free to enter. There are no ticket requirements for general access.
As a natural woodland park, Roland's Wood is typically open from dawn till dusk. Specific hours are not usually posted.
No, there is no admission fee to enjoy Roland's Wood. It's a public space for everyone to appreciate.
It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully enjoy the scenery. Access is generally permitted during daylight.
The main consideration is keeping dogs under control and being aware of the natural environment, including potentially toxic plants.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Absolutely! Roland's Wood is highly recommended as a dog-friendly park, with many owners letting their dogs off-leash.
You can find beautiful Magnolias, Clivia, and bluebells, especially in early October. However, be aware of toxic lilies.
The tracks can get wet and a bit unkempt, particularly down by the stream after rain. The upper areas are generally better kept.
Yes, children can enjoy the forest hike-like adventure. The terrain can be a bit slippery after rain, adding to the adventure.
Visitors have suggested a need for a doggy bin and a water fountain, but these are not currently available.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant floral displays, especially the bluebells in early October, and the lush woodland scenery.
Morning light can be beautiful for woodland photography, but the vibrant colors of the flowers are a great subject any time of day.
Yes, Roland's Wood is a popular spot for dog walkers, so you'll find plenty of opportunities to photograph happy pups enjoying their walk.
The upper areas offer good views, and the stream area, though potentially slippery, provides a more adventurous photographic setting.
A versatile lens for landscapes and potential wildlife or pet shots would be ideal. A wide-angle lens can capture the expanse of the woodland.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Roland's Wood with Your Canine Companion
Despite the presence of toxic flora, the overall sentiment from visitors is overwhelmingly positive regarding the dog-friendliness of Roland's Wood. Many reviewers express delight at seeing other dogs enjoying the space, contributing to a welcoming community vibe. The natural terrain offers an engaging environment for dogs, making it a rewarding outing for them. Remember to bring water for your pet, as amenities like doggy drinking fountains are currently lacking.
Seasonal Beauty and Trail Conditions
When it comes to the trails, conditions can vary. After wet weather, the paths, especially those closer to the stream, can become quite slippery and unkempt. While this might add an element of adventure for some, it's advisable to wear appropriate footwear, like sturdy walking shoes or boots, to navigate these sections safely. Visitors have noted that the upper areas of the wood tend to be better maintained and less prone to becoming waterlogged, offering a more accessible walking experience.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit