Best Pet-Friendly Photoshoot Locations in Auckland
Auckland is full of stunning locations perfect for capturing beautiful moments with your furry friend. Whether you’re looking for a scenic beach, a lush park, or a hidden gem, there are plenty of pet-friendly spots where your dog (or adventurous cat!) can roam freely while we create stunning portraits. Here are some of the best locations for a pet photoshoot in the Auckland region.
Long Bay Beach & Regional Park
📍 Long Bay, North Shore
If your pup loves the beach, Long Bay is an amazing spot. With its long stretch of sandy shore, rolling green hills, and walking tracks, there’s plenty of variety for a photoshoot. Dogs are allowed off-leash in designated areas, making it a great place to capture action shots of them running and playing in the waves. Sunset sessions here are especially stunning!
✔️ Best for: Beach-loving dogs, sunset shots, and playful action photos.
✔️ Off-leash areas available.
Cornwall Park
📍 Greenlane, Central Auckland
Cornwall Park offers a mix of tree-lined paths, open fields, and iconic landmarks like the historic Acacia Cottage and the grand oak trees. It’s a beautiful setting for a relaxed, natural photoshoot with your pet. While dogs must be on a leash in most areas, the scenery and lighting here are perfect for capturing intimate portraits.
✔️ Best for: Classic park settings, golden hour portraits, and relaxed walks.
✔️ Leashed dogs welcome.
Piha Beach
📍 West Auckland
For an epic, dramatic backdrop, Piha Beach is unbeatable. The black sand, rugged cliffs, and crashing waves create a striking setting for photos. It’s perfect for adventurous pets who love the outdoors. Just keep in mind that dogs must be on a leash in certain areas to protect wildlife.
✔️ Best for: Adventurous pets, dramatic scenery, and bold, artistic shots.
✔️ Check local dog rules before visiting.
Western Springs Park
📍 Western Springs, Central Auckland
If you love a mix of nature and urban charm, Western Springs is a fantastic choice. The park has large grassy areas, beautiful lakeside spots, and plenty of shade from native trees. While it’s a great place for relaxed pet portraits, keep in mind that dogs must be on a leash.
✔️ Best for: Peaceful nature shots, lakeside reflections, and serene pet portraits.
✔️ Leashed dogs welcome.
Muriwai Beach & Woodhill Forest
📍 West Auckland
Muriwai Beach is a fantastic option for dog lovers who want a mix of beach and forest backdrops. The vast black-sand beach offers plenty of space for playful shots, while nearby Woodhill Forest provides a magical, shaded setting for something a little different. Dogs can run off-leash in certain areas, making it great for action shots.
✔️ Best for: Beach and forest lovers, off-leash fun, and adventure shots.
✔️ Off-leash areas available.
Waiatarua Reserve
📍 Remuera, Central-East Auckland
For a peaceful, nature-filled location, Waiatarua Reserve is a hidden gem. It has beautiful wetlands, open fields, and winding pathways that make for a relaxed and natural setting. Plus, it’s one of Auckland’s largest off-leash areas, giving your dog plenty of freedom to explore.
✔️ Best for: Quiet, nature-filled shots and relaxed pet portraits.
✔️ Large off-leash area available.
Shakespear Regional Park
📍 Whangaparaoa Peninsula, North Auckland
This stunning coastal park offers panoramic ocean views, rolling green hills, and quiet beach spots. While dogs need to be on a leash in most areas, the scenery makes up for it! The combination of grassy fields and sea views is perfect for capturing timeless portraits.
✔️ Best for: Wide-open spaces, ocean views, and peaceful outdoor portraits.
✔️ Leashed dogs welcome.
8. Auckland Domain
📍 Parnell, Central Auckland
Auckland Domain offers a beautiful mix of wide-open spaces, mature trees, and interesting architecture like the Wintergardens. It’s a great option for central city residents wanting a classic, elegant shoot with their pet.
✔️ Leashed dogs welcome.
9. Mairangi Bay Reserve
📍 North Shore, East Coast Bays
A favourite for locals, this beachside reserve combines grassy areas with sandy coastline—great for playful shots and relaxed seaside vibes. Dogs are allowed off-leash in designated areas during certain hours.
✔️ Time-based off-leash access—check local signage.
Every pet is different, so picking the right location depends on their personality and energy level. If your dog loves to run and play, a beach or off-leash park might be best. If they’re more chill, a quieter reserve or shaded park will suit perfectly.
Have a special spot in mind? If you and your pet have a favourite park, beach, or even your own backyard, I’m happy to come to you! Travel within the Greater Auckland region is included in the session price. For locations outside that area, a small travel fee may apply.
Let’s choose the perfect place and capture unforgettable memories together!
📅 Ready to book your pet photoshoot?
Visit our Pet Photography Page to view our packages, check out our work, and lock in a date for your furry friend’s session!
