Last updated July 2026
Ayrlies Garden and Wetlands is a private garden and wetland reserve on a rural property at Whitford, southeast of Auckland. The garden spans six hectares of rolling terrain with formal and informal plantings, ponds and waterways, while the adjacent wetlands form a separate conservation area open daily. Developed since 1964 by Beverley McConnell, the site is recognised by the New Zealand Garden Trust as a Garden of International Significance. Entry to the garden costs $20 per person and includes access to the wetlands; the wetlands alone remain free. Visits require planning around seasonal closures and access rules.
Practical Information
| Address | 125 Potts Road, Whitford, Auckland 2571 |
| Garden hours | Monday to Friday, 9am–4pm; Saturday by appointment only; closed Sunday and public holidays |
| Saturday visits | Email ga****@********co.nz by 3pm the preceding Friday |
| Wetlands | Open every day, year-round — free entry |
| Garden entry fee | $20 per person (online payment preferred; proof required at gate) |
| Restrictions | No dogs; no children under 12; not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs |
| Contact | ga****@********co.nz | +64 9 530 8706 |
| Seasonal closures | Winter closure typically June to mid-August; additional dates may apply (check website) |
| Getting there | Approximately 40 minutes southeast of Auckland CBD; park in the designated garden car park 1.5 km along Potts Road |
About Ayrlies Garden and Wetlands
Ayrlies was created by Beverley McConnell and her late husband Malcolm on what was once a dairy farm. Work began in 1964, transforming the bare site into an extensive garden that blends sweeping lawns, mature trees, formal terraces near the house and naturalistic plantings around ponds and waterways. The six-hectare garden features high plant diversity with species labels and is noted for its integration of water features across the sloping terrain.
The New Zealand Garden Trust has awarded Ayrlies its highest rating of six stars as a Garden of International Significance. This recognition highlights the garden’s horticultural quality and design, making it a destination for visitors with a serious interest in plants and landscape. Guided tours for groups are available by arrangement on weekdays.
The garden is not accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs due to steps and steep sections. No dogs are permitted and children under 12 are not admitted. A specialised nursery on site offers plants propagated from the garden, with cash purchases only.
The Wetlands
The wetlands were created around the year 2000 as a 35-acre conservation area honouring Malcolm McConnell. An eight-acre lake forms the centrepiece, supporting native wetland plants, waterfowl, herons and other birdlife. The area functions as an ecological reserve while providing scenic views that link the garden to the surrounding farmland and Hauraki Gulf.
The wetlands remain open every day of the year with free entry, independent of garden admission. A separate car park serves wetland visitors, and easy paths including boardwalks allow a relaxed walk of about two kilometres. The wetlands complement the garden but can be enjoyed on their own.
What Visitors Often Say
The combination of structured garden areas and the natural wetland beyond creates a distinctive experience that feels unlike other gardens near Auckland. Many appreciate the plant variety and the thoughtful layout across the property.
Visitors often note the scale and seasonal interest, with some describing the drive from the city as worthwhile for the depth of planting and peaceful setting. The wetlands receive particular praise for their birdlife and easy walking paths.
Where to Learn More
Ayrlies Garden & Wetlands Visit page: Current opening hours, fees, booking details and seasonal closure information.
New Zealand Garden Trust — Ayrlies: Details of the six-star Garden of International Significance rating and garden background.
NewZealand.com — Ayrlies: Official tourism overview with regional context and visitor tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book to visit Ayrlies?
Weekday visits (Monday to Friday) do not require advance booking. Saturday visits need prior email arrangement by 3pm the preceding Friday. The garden is closed on Sundays and public holidays.
How much does it cost to visit Ayrlies?
Entry is $20 per person and covers both the garden and wetlands. Online payment is preferred; show proof at the gate. The wetlands alone are free.
Are children or dogs allowed?
No dogs are permitted. Children under 12 years old are not admitted to the garden or wetlands.
Is the garden wheelchair accessible?
The garden features steps and steep sections and is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
How long does a visit take?
Allow at least 1.5–2 hours for the garden. The wetlands add another 30–60 minutes depending on the route chosen.
How far is Ayrlies from Auckland CBD?
The drive takes approximately 40 minutes southeast via Ōtāhuhu and Whitford Road. The address is 125 Potts Road, Whitford.
What are the seasonal closures?
A winter closure typically runs from early June to mid-August. Additional closure dates may apply; always check the official website before travelling.
Are guided tours available?
Guided tours of about 1.5 hours can be arranged for groups during weekdays at an additional cost.
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