Design, In the Garden, Living with Style, Travel Notes

Ayrlies Garden and Wetlands, New Zealand

March 19, 2026 by Bettie Bearden Pardee
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Ayrlies Garden is the creation of visionary Beverly McConnell, who, since 1964, has been sculpting 14 acres of bare farmland into one of New Zealand’s best known Gardens. An hour from Auckland, on the North Island, this large “country garden“ features rolling terrain, large lawns, dramatic waterways, specimen subtropical plantings, and a stunning collection of large trees. 

One of the most memorable features is the bubbling brooks that plunge down rocky waterfalls into the property’s many ponds. Do enjoy these “postcards” from this rightfully celebrated land Down Under. 

And closing with a scene that could just as easily be in England…

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About Bettie Bearden Pardee

Author of Private Newport and Living Newport, garden furniture designer (The Parterre Bench), national lecturer, and entertaining expert. An honoree for the second year on "The Salonniere 100 America's Best Party Hosts", she was also the host and creative producer of "The Presidential Palate: Entertaining at the White House".

7 thoughts on “Ayrlies Garden and Wetlands, New Zealand”

  3. What luscious layers of green with subtle color bursts you are showing us! Isn’t it wonderful that gardens of the world never cease to delight everyone.

  6. I truly love your garden travel logs. I’m curious about the pine tree snap.The cones are amazing…what is their name?

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