Brick Bay Sculpture Trail – Auckland’s Premier Outdoor Art Trail

Brick Bay Sculpture Trail offers visitors a rare combination of contemporary art and natural New Zealand landscape. Located on the Mahurangi Peninsula near Snells Beach, this outdoor experience showcases an ever-changing collection of large-scale sculptures by leading New Zealand artists. The trail weaves through diverse environments including native bush, lakes with waterlilies, working vineyards, and open pastures, creating an immersive journey that appeals to art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The 2km loop trail provides a manageable walk suitable for most fitness levels, typically taking one to two hours to complete. What sets Brick Bay apart is its commitment to offering sculptures for sale, making it not just a viewing experience but also a potential acquisition opportunity for collectors. The site operates as a private sculpture garden while supporting the New Zealand art community through ticket proceeds.

For those planning a visit from Auckland, the trail represents an accessible day trip option. Located approximately one hour’s drive north of the city, the Mahurangi Peninsula destination rewards visitors with panoramic views, native birdlife including tui, kereru, and kaka, and the chance to explore the indoor Glass House gallery. Whether seeking artistic inspiration or simply a peaceful escape into nature, Brick Bay has established itself as a distinctive destination on Auckland’s Matakana Coast.

What is Brick Bay Sculpture Trail?

Brick Bay Sculpture Trail is a private outdoor art installation set within a working rural property on the Matakana Coast. The trail features over 50 contemporary sculptures by New Zealand artists, displayed across a landscape that transitions between regenerating native forest and cultivated vineyard areas. Visitors encounter works that range from traditional static forms to interactive pieces featuring kinetic, floating, and sonic elements that respond to environmental conditions.

Location and Background

The sculpture trail sits on the Mahurangi Peninsula, positioned between the communities of Snells Beach and Makarau on Auckland’s northern coast. The physical address is 17 Arabella Lane, Snells Beach, Auckland 0920. From Auckland, visitors travel north via State Highway 1 to Warkworth, then continue east along Mahurangi East Road for approximately 10 minutes, following signs to the Arabella Lane entrance.

The setting deliberately integrates art with the natural environment rather than imposing works upon it. Kahikatea, totara, puriri, nikau palms, and kauri trees frame various installations, while lakes planted with waterlilies provide reflective surfaces for kinetic works. This approach has earned Brick Bay recognition as the largest outdoor sculpture selection available for sale in New Zealand.

Key Sculptures and Features

The collection emphasises contemporary New Zealand creativity, though specific artist names vary as the exhibition changes. Works span multiple disciplines including metalwork, wood carving, mixed media, and environmental installations. Some pieces incorporate wind or sunlight mechanisms, while others produce sound elements that interact with the surrounding forest canopy.

The trail also includes an indoor gallery space at the Glass House, where visitors can view additional works in a controlled environment. Seasonal food and boutique wines are available at the adjacent restaurant, which offers discounted combined tickets for those wishing to dine after their walk.

How Long is the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail and What to Expect?

The Brick Bay Sculpture Trail covers approximately 2 kilometres in a loop configuration. Most visitors require a minimum of one hour to complete the circuit, though those wishing to spend more time with individual works or photograph the landscape may need up to two hours. The terrain varies throughout, incorporating grass paths, bark mulch surfaces, pebble sections, and elevated boardwalks that cross the lake systems.

Trail Length and Duration

Physical distance of 2km translates to roughly 30-45 minutes of walking time for an average-paced visitor. However, the experience encourages lingering at sculptures, reading accompanying materials, and absorbing panoramic views across the Matakana Coast. Morning visits often offer quieter conditions and better wildlife viewing opportunities, with native birds most active during the early hours.

The loop design allows visitors to return to the starting point without retracing steps, creating a natural sense of progression through different landscape zones. Information boards at key installations provide context without overwhelming the visual experience.

Highlights Along the Way

The lakes with waterlilies represent one of the most photographed sections, particularly when sculptures reflect on the water surface. The regenerating native forest portion offers glimpses of mature kauri and puriri trees alongside younger plantings, demonstrating the ongoing ecological restoration of the property. Visitors frequently mention the contrast between open pastoral views and intimate bush encounters as particularly memorable.

Birdlife adds another dimension to the experience, with tui, kereru, kaka, and piwakawaka commonly spotted throughout the property. Spring and summer visits coincide with increased birdsong and the flowering of native plants, while autumn offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Opening Hours, Prices, and How to Visit

Brick Bay Sculpture Trail operates daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, including public holidays. The site remains open on Mondays, though visitors are advised to check the official website before travelling as hours can vary seasonally. Booking tickets online in advance is recommended, particularly during school holidays and weekends when demand increases.

Tickets and Admission

Trail admission prices vary according to age category and whether visitors plan to dine at the Glass House Restaurant. The following table summarises current pricing:

Ticket proceeds directly support the artists displayed and fund maintenance of the trail and grounds. Children under five enter free, and occasional promotional offers during school holidays provide free entry for younger visitors. Additional local services may offer package deals combining admission with nearby attractions.

Getting There

The most practical approach involves driving from Auckland via State Highway 1 north to Warkworth, a journey of approximately one hour. From Warkworth, proceed east along Mahurangi East Road for roughly 10 minutes until reaching Arabella Lane, which marks the entrance to Brick Bay. The trail entrance sits immediately before reaching Snells Beach township.

Those relying on public transport should note that bus services to the Matakana Coast are limited. Renting a vehicle or joining an organised tour provides the most flexibility. Parking facilities are available at the trail entrance, with sufficient space for cars and smaller vehicles.

Operating Hours

The consistent daily schedule makes planning straightforward, though weather conditions can affect the experience significantly. Rain does not close the trail, and many visitors appreciate the atmospheric quality of misty mornings in the native forest sections. However, certain sculptures with mechanical or electrical components may be less active during heavy rainfall.

Peak visiting times typically occur during New Zealand summer months and major holiday periods. Weekday visits generally result in a more contemplative experience with fewer fellow visitors on the trail. Seasonal pricing variations occasionally apply, so confirming current rates before visiting remains advisable.

Tips for Visiting Brick Bay Sculpture Trail

Preparing appropriately enhances the experience considerably. Walking shoes with adequate grip prove essential given the varied terrain surfaces, while sun protection and water bottles support longer visits. Activity maps available at the entrance help families engage younger children with a scavenger hunt approach to the sculptures, and free promotional entries for children sometimes apply during school holiday periods.

Best Time to Go

Spring and summer months deliver the most vibrant natural environment, with native birdsong at its peak and the lakes featuring their fullest waterlily displays. However, these seasons also attract larger visitor numbers. Those prioritising solitude might consider autumn visits, when cooler temperatures and thinner crowds create a different atmosphere.

Morning starts maximise both wildlife viewing opportunities and provide first access to the sculptures before groups arrive. The trail is enjoyable in virtually any weather condition, with each atmospheric variation offering distinct photographic possibilities.

Accessibility and Rules

The trail requires reasonable fitness from visitors due to undulating terrain, stairs at various points, and approximately two hours of walking time. While off-road pushchairs can navigate some sections, the stairs present challenges that make back-carriers a more practical option for families with infants. Wheelchair access is not available along the trail itself, though the Glass House Restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

Children must be supervised at all times, particularly near water features and elevated boardwalks. The site requests that visitors respect the artworks by maintaining appropriate distances and avoiding physical contact where signage indicates. Photography for personal use is encouraged throughout the grounds.

Frequently Asked Questions