Hays Paddock Dog Off Leash Area

Hays Paddock is a large, open reserve at 27 Longstaff Street, Kew East, and one of the most generous off-leash propositions in Boroondara: dogs can run free across the sports grounds and surrounding parkland around the clock, not just in restricted windows. A gravel path follows Glass Creek through the middle of the park, and the whole setup makes it a favourite for inner-east owners.

The dog setup

The reserve has water taps with dog bowls, picnic tables, shelters, BBQs and a toilet block near the playground, with gravel walking paths along the creek. There are two car parks, one off Longstaff Street and one off Lister Street. Off-leash running applies across the parkland and the sports ovals whenever formal matches or training are not active, so a weekend fixture takes priority on the main grounds.

Leash status

Off-leash comes with Boroondara's conditions: carry a lead at all times and keep your dog under effective voice control. Leash up within 10 metres of the children's playground, which is off-limits to dogs entirely, stay at least 30 metres from active picnic and BBQ setups and organised events, and keep clear of the archery club on the northern side when it is in use. The wetland on the western edge is out of bounds for dogs to protect the native birdlife, and the thick vegetation there is also snake habitat in the warmer months.

Max: the creek-side gravel is shared with cyclists, so keep a hand near the lead on the narrow sections even if your dog has solid recall.

Getting there and parking

The park sits close to the M3 Freeway and Kilby Road, with parking at both entrances. Several bus routes along Burke Road and Belford Road stop within a short walk if you are coming by public transport.

When to go

Sunday afternoons, Monday evenings and Tuesday daytime draw the biggest off-leash crowds, while Sunday evenings and weekday afternoons are quieter. If the main sports field is busy, the stretch along Glass Creek usually has more room to spread out.

Close by with the dogs

Willsmere Park in the same suburb adds riverside walking along the Yarra where dogs can paddle, and Gordon Barnard Reserve in Balwyn North is the fenced option if you want a secure perimeter. For coffee afterwards, Corner Store in Kew is a short drive back.

More options are on the Victoria dog parks guide and the Kew East destination page.