Adventure brief
Husky Tour
Step into the energetic world of Siberian Huskies at Timberline Racing Huskies in Broadlands, NZ. Meet the dogs, witness a live mushing demo, and learn the gear behind this unique dryland sled sport.
Situated in the heart of Broadlands Forest, Waikato, New Zealand, Timberline Racing Huskies offers a one-of-a-kind experience for outdoor enthusiasts and animal lovers alike. This family-friendly Husky Tour invites visitors to engage intimately with Siberian Huskies renowned for their energy and charisma, bringing a vibrant slice of mushing culture to New Zealand’s rugged North Island. Upon arrival at 36 Kilkenny Way, guests are welcomed into the kennel’s lively atmosphere, setting the stage for an immersive introduction to the team's canine stars.
The tour begins with a heartfelt meet and greet, allowing close interaction and photo opportunities with these agile and affectionate dogs. Watching a live demonstration comes next, where the huskies showcase their sprinting power and teamwork on a custom-built track alongside a quad bike. This dynamic display captures the essence of dryland mushing, a thrilling alternative to traditional snow sledding.
Visitors are then guided through the technical gear involved in this sport—from the wheeled rig to sleds and support trucks—offering a hands-on understanding of mushing mechanics. The tour culminates in a relaxed session with the huskies for cuddles and refreshments, perfect for unwinding after the excitement. Timberline Racing Huskies stands out by blending educational components with genuine animal connection, creating memories that resonate beyond typical outdoor tours.
Located amid the rolling pastures and native bush of Waikato, the setting complements the huskies’ energetic spirit and highlights New Zealand’s growing outdoor recreation offerings. Ideal for all ages, this 2-hour adventure is a rare opportunity to engage with the mushing world in a temperate climate, making Timberline Racing Huskies a distinctive outdoor destination on the North Island for families, adventure seekers, and anyone captivated by the bond between humans and working dogs.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive Early for Best Experienceinfo
Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes before your scheduled time to enjoy the full meet-and-greet without rushing.
- 02Dress for Outdoor Conditionsessential
Wear sturdy shoes and layered clothing as the tour includes outdoor demos on a custom track.
- 03Respect the Huskies’ Spacewarning
Approach dogs calmly and follow guide instructions to ensure safety and comfort for both visitors and animals.
- 04Bring a Camerainfo
Capture the huskies in action and during cuddle time, but avoid flash photography to keep dogs comfortable.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Layered Clothing
Adjust layers to stay comfortable during time outdoors and whenever weather changes.
allEssentialSturdy Closed-toe Shoes
Protect feet from uneven ground and potential mud on the mushing track.
allEssentialSun Protection
Hat and sunscreen safeguard skin during sunny summer tours.
summerCamera or Smartphone
Capture memorable moments with the huskies, but avoid flash photography.
allLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Broadlands Forest walking trails for light hikes, Nearby Waitomo glowworm caves for an underground adventure
Local fauna
New Zealand fantails darting through the forest, Occasional sightings of native weka birds
Historic heritage
The Waikato region combines rich Maori heritage with a growing outdoor adventure scene, giving cultural context to Timberline’s unique mushing tours.
Mindful exploration
Timberline Racing Huskies supports sustainable animal care and maintains the forest setting responsibly to minimize environmental impact.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- The mushing demonstration track for dynamic action shots, Kennel area during meet and greet for intimate portraits, Wide forest clearings showing natural surroundings
- Subjects
- Siberian Huskies in motion, Mushing gear close-ups, Visitor interactions with dogs
- Best times
- Golden hour, Late morning, Afternoon light
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
How long is the Husky Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including meet and greet, demonstration, gear overview, and dog cuddling.
Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children as young as toddlers can participate, with families welcome to book together.
Is the trail suitable for wheelchair users?
The tour is mostly accessible but involves uneven terrain on the custom track; please contact Timberline Racing Huskies for detailed accessibility info.
Can I bring pets with me?
For the safety and focus of the racing dogs, outside pets are not permitted during the tour.
What is dryland mushing?
Dryland mushing uses wheeled rigs or sleds on dirt tracks instead of snow, allowing for dog team racing year-round.
What should I wear on the tour?
Wear comfortable layers and sturdy shoes suitable for outdoor walking and variable weather conditions.