New Norfolk dog park

New Norfolk dog park is the fenced dog exercise area on Humphrey Street Reserve in the Derwent Valley, about 35 minutes from Hobart down the Lyell Highway. It is a straightforward local park rather than a destination in itself, but full fencing and a double-gate entry make it a safe, low-stress place for a proper off-lead run.

The rules

Under Derwent Valley Council's dog rules the area is off-lead 24 hours a day, but dogs must be under effective control at all times even inside the fence. Council rules also prohibit dogs within 10 metres of any children's playground and within 2 metres of a BBQ, so keep clear of the adjacent facilities, and clip the lead back on in the car park. Use the double gate properly: shut the first before opening the second.

Max: check the gate latches before you let anyone off lead. Double-gate systems only work if both gates are shut, and a distracted moment here is how dogs get loose near the road.

What is there

A fully fenced, grassed run with waste bags and bins provided and a few unshaded benches for owners. There is no reliable water tap inside the park, so bring your own bowl and water, especially through a Tasmanian summer. Shade is limited, so plan shorter visits on hot afternoons.

Getting there and parking

The park is on Humphrey Street in New Norfolk, and street parking out front is generally easy to find. It is an easy drive from Hobart via the A10, and the Bicentennial Track starts at the Humphrey Street Bridge nearby if you want an on-lead riverside walk to add on.

When to go

Weekday mid-mornings, roughly 10am to 2pm, are the quietest window. Early mornings and late afternoons bring the local regulars, and weekends are busiest of all.

Close by with the dogs

Back in town, The Cake Lady Cafe is a coffee stop in the centre, and Junction Motel is a pet-friendly stay if you are making a weekend of the Derwent Valley.

More options are on the Tasmania dog parks guide and the New Norfolk destination page.