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 paintings 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. The Garden now covers some 4 hectares of rolling terrain, with large lawns, ponds and waterfalls. Now over 50 years the garden is nearing maturity. Trees and shrubs form a changing backdrop for the garden. View lines to the Hauraki Gulf and within the garden are preserved with careful arboriculture. A large Ayrlies Wetland area links the garden to the sea.