Last updated July 2026
The Gardens is a family-oriented South Auckland residential suburb named for its proximity to the major Auckland Botanic Gardens — modern family housing with the substantial 64-hectare gardens immediately adjacent, plus easy access to Manukau and SH1 motorway commuting.
Practical Information
| Location | South Auckland, adjacent to Auckland Botanic Gardens |
| Distance to CBD | ~22 km — about 28 min drive via SH1 |
| Local board | Manurewa Local Board |
| Standout features | Auckland Botanic Gardens (64 hectares immediately adjacent), modern family housing |
| Transport | Buses on Hill Road; SH1 motorway access |
| Character | Modern family residential suburb next to major botanic gardens |
About The Gardens
The Gardens is a modern South Auckland family residential suburb — developed substantially from the 1980s onwards alongside the Auckland Botanic Gardens, with the gardens themselves giving the suburb its name. The combination of family-oriented housing plus the substantial gardens amenity makes The Gardens one of the more distinctive South Auckland family destinations.
Auckland Botanic Gardens
Auckland Botanic Gardens are 64 hectares of curated gardens, native bush remnants and themed planting collections immediately adjacent to The Gardens suburb — free entry, with the Visitor Centre, café, themed garden areas (rose garden, native plant garden, threatened species collection), and walking tracks throughout. The gardens host major annual events including the Sculpture in the Gardens exhibition. Direct walking access from The Gardens streets gives residents one of South Auckland’s standout green-space amenities.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Botanic Gardens — official gardens website.
Manurewa Local Board — local government area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is The Gardens?
South Auckland immediately adjacent to Auckland Botanic Gardens. ~22 km from CBD.
How big are the Botanic Gardens?
64 hectares of curated gardens, native bush and themed plantings — free entry, with Visitor Centre and café.
What’s the character?
Modern family residential with the substantial botanic gardens as the defining adjacent amenity.
Is the gardens free?
Yes — free entry to the Auckland Botanic Gardens.
For more South Auckland suburbs see Auckland Suburbs.
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