Dog Boarding
A farm holiday for your dog
Your dog does not get locked in a kennel. They get a lifestyle block. Space to run, fresh Canterbury air, and a pack of miniature dachshunds to play with. This is dog boarding the way it should be.
Why we are different
This is not a kennel. This is your dog joining our family.
Most boarding facilities are built for volume. Dogs in cages, limited outdoor time, staff who barely know your dog's name. That is not us. At Kowai, your dog stays in our home, on a lifestyle block, as part of our pack.
We are a family of miniature dachshund lovers. Our own sausage dogs live here on the lifestyle block, and your dog joins right in with them. They sleep inside, they eat on schedule, they go on farm walks, and they get the kind of attention that only comes from genuine dog people who actually enjoy having them around.
We know how hard it is to leave your dog. That is exactly why we do this the way we do. Small numbers, big care, daily updates. Your dog will be so happy they might not want to come home.
Dachshund specialists
Built for sausage dogs
We are dachshund people through and through. If you have a miniature dachshund, you are in exactly the right place.
We speak dachshund
We know the stubbornness, the drama, the burrowing under blankets, and the absolute need to be the centre of attention. Your dachshund will feel right at home.
Ramps everywhere that matter
We promote ramp access throughout our home — onto couches, beds, the deck, and more. Your dachshund gets full access without the jump.
Pack socialisation
Your dachshund joins our resident dachshund pack. They play together, nap together, and go on farm walks together. It is social time at its best.
Temperature comfort
Dachshunds feel the cold. Our dogs sleep inside with blankets and warmth, not in a draughty kennel run. Summer or winter, they are comfortable.
Feeding fussiness handled
We know dachshunds can be particular about food. We follow your feeding instructions exactly and track meals to make sure nothing is missed.
Daily photo updates
We send photos and updates every day so you can see exactly how your sausage dog is getting on. Spoiler: they will be living their best life.
Not a dachshund? No problem. We welcome all breeds -- the above just gives you a sense of the level of care every dog receives.
How it works
- 01
Send an enquiry
Tell us your dates, your dog, and any special requirements. We will check availability and come back to you within 24 hours.
- 02
Meet and greet
If it is your first time, we like to meet your dog beforehand. It helps them settle in faster and gives you peace of mind.
- 03
Drop off and settle in
Your dog arrives and joins the pack. We give them time to explore at their own pace. Most settle in within the first hour.
- 04
Pick up a happy dog
Well-exercised, well-loved, and probably a little reluctant to leave. You will get daily updates the whole time they are with us.
What is included
Feeding
We feed only the best
Our pack is fed premium ACANA dry food — one of the highest quality dog food brands available in New Zealand. We rotate between two varieties depending on the season and each dog's needs.
If your dog has a specific diet, food sensitivities, or you prefer to bring their own food, that is absolutely fine — we follow your feeding instructions to the letter.
ACANA Highest Protein Pacifica
Fish formulaWild-caught fish formula — high protein, grain-free, and rich in Omega-3. Great for skin, coat, and energy.
ACANA Classics Prairie Poultry
Poultry formulaFree-run chicken, turkey, and eggs — a balanced, digestible everyday recipe that most dogs love.
All food is served to your dog's regular portion size and schedule.
What to bring for your dog
The less disruption to your dog's routine, the faster they settle. Here is what helps.
Their regular food
Bring enough of their usual food for the stay, portioned if possible. We follow your feeding instructions exactly.
Bedding or a blanket
Something that smells like home helps them settle faster. We have spare bedding too, but their own is best.
Medication and instructions
If your dog is on any medication, bring it clearly labelled with dosage instructions. We will make sure it is given on time.
Lead, collar, and harness
Their own gear for walks. We have spares, but dogs are more comfortable in what they know.
Vaccination records
We require up-to-date vaccinations (C5 or equivalent) for the safety of all dogs. Bring a copy or email it beforehand.
A favourite toy
Optional but recommended. A familiar toy can make all the difference during the first night.
Pricing
Boarding rates
Simple, transparent pricing. No hidden fees — the price you see is the price you pay.
One dog
$55
per night, incl. GST
Two dogs
$90
per night, incl. GST
- ✓All care, walks, and daily photo updates included
- ✓No hidden fees — the quoted price is the final price
- ✓Peak period rates may apply during school holidays and public holidays
Book a stay
Boarding enquiry
Fill in the details below and we will confirm availability and get back to you within 24 hours. The more you tell us, the better we can prepare for your dog's stay.
We know how hard it is to leave them
Every dog owner who boards for the first time feels the same way. Here is what we want you to know.
Your dog sleeps inside our home
Not in a kennel, not in a shed. Inside, with blankets, on proper bedding. If they usually sleep on a bed, they will probably end up on ours too.
We send updates without you asking
You will get photos and a quick message every day. No need to wonder or worry -- you will see exactly how they are doing.
We keep numbers deliberately small
We never take on more dogs than we can give genuine attention to. This is not a business built on volume -- it is built on quality of care.
Your dog is never left alone
Someone is always home. Farm life means we are here all day, every day. Your dog has company from the moment they arrive until you pick them up.
Give your dog the lifestyle block holiday they deserve
Spots are limited. Send us an enquiry with your dates and your dog's details, and we will get back to you within 24 hours.
By making a booking you agree to our Terms & Conditions