Last updated May 2026
Highfield Garden Reserve is a bush and garden reserve near Algies Bay and Snells Beach, approximately 70km north of Auckland city in the Warkworth area. The reserve is free to visit, and its main attractions are a paddock of friendly resident donkeys, native bush walking tracks, views over Algies Bay and Snells Beach, and links to the Scandrett Regional Park coastal walkway. It’s a low-key, family-friendly destination that rewards those who venture beyond the main Auckland attractions — particularly families with young children who will enjoy meeting the donkeys.
Practical Information
| Location | 477 Mahurangi East Road, Algies Bay, Auckland |
|---|---|
| Entry | Free, open daily |
| Walk duration | Approximately 60 minutes for the main loop |
| Track difficulty | Easy to moderate |
| Donkey visit | Donkeys can be fed carrots, apples, or silverbeet |
| Facilities | Limited on site; basic facilities at nearby Snells Beach |
| Distance from Auckland | Approximately 70km north via State Highway 1 |
About Highfield Garden Reserve
The reserve sits on Mahurangi East Road between Algies Bay and Snells Beach, in the rural and coastal Mahurangi district north of Warkworth. It was developed as a garden reserve on private land that was subsequently made accessible to the public, and the combination of ornamental planting, native bush, fruit trees, and views over the bay gives it a character quite different from Auckland’s urban parks.
The reserve is particularly known for its donkey paddock. A group of resident donkeys — including Tina, Tara, Topsy, Turvey, Truffle, and younger animals including Toby, Tilly, and Titan — have become the main draw for families visiting the reserve. The animals are gentle and accustomed to visitors, and the reserve encourages visitors to bring carrots, apples, or silverbeet for them. The donkey visit is the kind of informal, low-key rural experience that’s hard to find close to the city.
The Walk
The main loop track takes approximately 60 minutes and passes through the reserve’s mix of native bush, ornamental garden planting, and open viewpoints. From the lookout sections, the track offers good views over Algies Bay, Snells Beach, and across to Scandrett Regional Park on the opposite headland. At low tide, the track also connects to a beach walk between Algies Bay and Snells Beach — extending the route for those who want more time in the area.
There are a few track options within the reserve: a shorter route to the upper lookout, a longer loop through the bush section, and the coastal extension to Algies Bay. The track signage is adequate; the reserve is compact enough that navigation is not complicated.
Scandrett Regional Park Connection
Highfield Garden Reserve sits adjacent to the wider Mahurangi coastal area that includes Scandrett Regional Park — a regional park managed by Auckland Council that covers the headland between Algies Bay and Mahurangi Harbour. Visitors combining Highfield with Scandrett can access more substantial coastal walks and views. Scandrett is accessible by a different road but the proximity makes the Mahurangi East area worth a half-day if you’re driving this far north.
What visitors say
“The donkeys are absolutely the highlight — so gentle and clearly used to being fussed over. We brought carrots and they were very happy. The walk itself has lovely views over the bay. A really pleasant find north of Warkworth.”
“Great for kids. The donkeys, the native bush, the views — it ticks a lot of boxes for a free day out. The coastal walk extension at low tide was beautiful. Worth combining with Scandrett if you have the time.”
Where to learn more
Auckland Council — Highfield Garden Reserve: official park page with access information.
Auckland NZ — Donkeys at Highfield: tourism overview with information about visiting the donkeys.
AllTrails — Highfield Garden Reserve Loop: trail details, map, and visitor reviews.
East Auckland Tourism — Mahurangi coastal area: broader context for the region.
FAQ
Is Highfield Garden Reserve free to visit?
Yes — entry is free. The walking tracks, viewpoints, and donkey paddock are all accessible without charge.
Can I feed the donkeys at Highfield Garden Reserve?
Yes — the donkeys are accustomed to visitors and can be hand-fed. Recommended foods are carrots, apples, or silverbeet. Avoid feeding bread, processed food, or inappropriate items.
How long is the walk at Highfield Garden Reserve?
The main loop takes approximately 60 minutes. Shorter routes to the upper lookout take around 20–30 minutes. The beach extension to Algies Bay is possible at low tide and adds time depending on how far along the beach you walk.
How far is Highfield Garden Reserve from Auckland?
Approximately 70km north of central Auckland via State Highway 1, passing through Warkworth. The drive takes approximately one hour depending on traffic.
What facilities are at Highfield Garden Reserve?
Facilities at the reserve itself are limited. Snells Beach, a short drive away, has a small shopping centre, cafés, and public toilets.
Highfield Garden Reserve is one of the parks and reserves in the broader Auckland region covered in the Auckland suburbs guide. For a volcanic cone walk closer to the city, see the guide to Ōhuiarangi / Pigeon Mountain in Half Moon Bay.
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