Family Walk & Nature Trail

Fernglen Native Plant Gardens

Tucked along Kauri Road in Birkenhead, Fernglen Native Plant Gardens is a council-owned green space dedicated to New Zealand's native flora. Families can wander through at their own pace during daylight hours any day of the week, making it an easy low-key outing without the need to plan around opening times.

How muchTe utu: Free
Ages: 0–34–89+
WhereKei hea: Birkenhead
Rating: 4.9; 53 on Google

Get directions Their websitefernglengardens.nz

Perfect for

Family Walks & Nature Trails Free Things to Do Outdoor Activities Toddler Activities

LocationTe wāhi

Birkenhead

36 Kauri Road, The Gardens, Auckland 0626, New Zealand

Directions Website

What it is

The gardens are run with genuine community investment — an educational committee and trust oversees programmes and events, and an education room on site is available for hire, used for children's birthday parties as well as meetings and yoga.

It suits families who want a calm, leafy walk without crowds or entrance fees to navigate. Gardening groups and larger parties are welcome to give advance notice, but for a quiet wander among tree ferns and native plantings, simply turning up is all it takes.

What other parents say

Patrice Flynn2 years ago

Lovely peaceful native plant gardens for a stroll around or there is a great bush walk with alot of stairs if you are feeling more adventurous. Great for kids and adults alike. Full of beautiful birdlife as a bonus. Note not stroller or wheelchair friendly.

Jenna Vincenta year ago

Great short walking track, nice gardens, few stairs, not wheelchair or pram friendly. My kids had a blast finding all the painted rocks and hiding them again.

Read 3 more reviews ↓

Leon Su LS3 years ago

Well hidden gem forest trail. The trail is an easy 20-30 minutes and is suitable for all ages. Plenty of parking. The garden also has a wide range of native fauna which are all well labeled.

Raymond5 months ago

An amazing place to relax and enjoy the quiet. Lots of places to walk and listen to the tui singing. Can hear the hustle and bustle of the city. If you enjoy tranquil escape this is the best place. 5 star

Ma year ago

36 kauri road the gardens Auckland Open m-f 9-4 Some tracks in this reserve are closed to prevent the spread of kauri dieback The historic Ben's Ridge provides one of the most diverse collections Dogs must be on leash at all times in our parks Recommended for all ages public toilet two and a nice picnic area a massive car park area too

Reviews from Google.