Ayrlies (Private)
“If you think of gardening as an art form, Ayrlies is the best expression of that art.” This is a quote by Jack Hobbs, manager of Auckland Botanic Gardens. Situated in the gently rolling country of east Auckland, this is one of New Zealand’s best known gardens, characterised by sweeping lawns and informal but detailed plantings by ponds and waterways. A strong but sensitive use of colour is a hallmark of Ayrlies seen best in the lurid border where ‘hot’ colours are used to great effect and in other areas where old roses, clematis and perennials are combined in romantic profusion.
Ayrlies is a seasonal garden where the owner has been challenged to have some plant at its best every week of the year, keeping horticultural and botanical interest in balance with the landscape. The garden has an almost subtropical climate which allows exotic plants such as Petrea, Alocasia, bromeliads, the flamboyant vireya rhododendrons and the exotic Ficus dammaropsis from New Guinea to flourish.
Just over 40 years from a bare site, the garden is nearing maturity. Trees and shrubs form a changing backdrop for roses, perennials, bulbs and grasses while plants native to New Zealand are a strong component. A wild flower meadow is an unusual attraction in early summer. Below the garden there is a large wetland area linking the garden to the waters of the Hauraki Gulf.
Opening Hours and Tariffs
Ayrlies is a private garden open throughout the year: by appointment
Monday to Friday 9am – 4.30pm
Closed on Saturday except by arrangement
Closed Sundays and public holidays
An admission fee of $20 cash is payable to any of the gardening team
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Group guided tour has a fee of $150
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We regret no dogs or children under 12 years old can be admitted
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There is also a nursery from which you can purchase plants
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Please note that we are unable to accept either credit cards or EFTPOS
Ayrlies Wetlands: Open 7 Days Admission free
Notes - The garden comprises 4 1/2 hectares of rolling terrain, some with steep slopes
Contact Details and Location
Physical Address: 125 Potts Rd, Whitford
Phone: 09 530 8706
Email: garden@ayrlies.co.nz
Website: http://ayrlies.co.nz
Facilities and Amenities
Map/brochure available
Ayrlies - My story, my garden written by Beverley McConnell
You can purchase the book through the Ayrlies Garden website
