Mincher
★★★★★★
Approached by a chestnut-lined drive which winds past old orchards and streams, Mincher, a large rural garden just north of Auckland’s CBD, is home to many varities of waterfowl and birdlife including Grey Teal, Aylesburys, Kingfishers, Shining Cuckoos, Tui and Kaka.
The structure and formality of the Georgian styled home is reflected in the immediate surrounding planting with long perennial borders and a parterre before gradually loosening to a more cottage style area under the ancient apple trees.
Passing through the “kissing gate” under the mature willows reveals a different vista of expansive grassed areas, encompassing “The Ride” edged with pin oaks, winding gravel paths weaving through a mix of native and exotic planting and the Rhododendron Walk, a blaze of glorious colour in spring.
The neighbouring traditional walled kitchen garden with its Victorian inspired glasshouses and adjoining gardener’s cottage nestled in its own pretty garden provides a quiet spot for contemplation.
Set against a backdrop of typically Northland podocarp forest, the Bush Walk features lookouts over the Mahonui Stream. Explore the 60m long bog garden and Drogo, the croquet lawn encircled with trimmed Totara and stroll under the pergola, espaliered with Manchurian pears.
Facilities and Amenities
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Mincher is a private garden with a capacity for large sized groups (20+).
Recommended visiting time – 1.5 hours.
Appointments required.
Mincher will be closed from 18th May 2026 until mid October.
The garden is suitable for disabled visitors.
Tariffs:
Adults $25.00pp
Seniors $25.00pp
Not suitable for children
Mobility and Guide dogs only - regret other dogs not permitted
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From Auckland north
Take SH1 north from Auckland
Take exit 410, turn left onto Oteha Valley Road and turn right at the stadium traffic lights
Continue through Albany village and turn left at the top of the Albany Hill onto the Coatesville Riverhead Highway
Mincher is 3.40 km along on the right - look for the long drystone wall.
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Physical Address: 338 Coatesville-Riverhead Highway, RD3 Albany, Auckland 0793
Phone: 09 415 7469
Email: minchergarden@xtra.co.nz
