Brick Bay Sculpture Trail Auckland
A boutique winery and cafe set amidst native bush, featuring an acclaimed sculpture trail with diverse artworks.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Brick Bay Sculpture Trail Auckland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A boutique winery and cafe set amidst native bush, featuring an acclaimed sculpture trail with diverse artworks.
"A perfect blend of art, nature, and exceptional food – a truly zen experience."
🎯 Book Dining in Advance
Reservations are essential, especially for weekends. Don't miss out on the delicious food! :forkandknife:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The sculpture trail involves walking through bush. Sturdy footwear is a must for enjoying the walk. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Sculpture Trail
Wooded trails
Wander through native bush dotted with diverse, thought-provoking sculptures. A true feast for the eyes and soul.

Brick Bay Cafe & Winery
Winery grounds
Enjoy delicious, seasonal fare and exceptional wine tasting in a stunning setting. Perfect for a leisurely lunch.
Kauri Loop Walk
Sculpture Trail
A stunning section of the trail showcasing magnificent Kauri trees and the beauty of the native forest.
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Dining
Embrace the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Dining in Advance
Reservations are essential, especially for weekends. Don't miss out on the delicious food! :forkandknife:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The sculpture trail involves walking through bush. Sturdy footwear is a must for enjoying the walk. :athletic_shoe:
Have family coming over from New York - where should I take them?
Places like sawmill/riverhead
☕ Grab a Takeaway Coffee
Perfect for enjoying the sculpture trail. Fuel your exploration with a delicious brew. :coffee:
📸 Capture the Art & Nature
Bring your camera! The sculptures and native bush offer incredible photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Dining in Advance
Reservations are essential, especially for weekends. Don't miss out on the delicious food! :forkandknife:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The sculpture trail involves walking through bush. Sturdy footwear is a must for enjoying the walk. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Grab a Takeaway Coffee
Perfect for enjoying the sculpture trail. Fuel your exploration with a delicious brew. :coffee:
📸 Capture the Art & Nature
Bring your camera! The sculptures and native bush offer incredible photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
🍷 Explore Wine Tasting
Sample their exceptional wines. A great way to enhance your visit and discover local flavors. :wine_glass:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Brick Bay for its stunning combination of art, nature, and delicious food. The sculpture trail is a major draw, offering a beautiful and engaging walk through native bush. The cafe and winery receive high marks for their exceptional cuisine, attentive service, and quality wines, though booking ahead is strongly advised due to its popularity.
"We had an amazing delicious lunch today. Staff were absolutely wonderful with genuine great customer service.
All our food was delicious, I think it's a place you need to visit several times to sample all items on the menu."
Richard Jagger
"We really enjoyed the sculpture trail—an easy and scenic walk, perfect before a meal. We had the lamb and the snapper with a side of fries, and everything tasted exceptional. The place was very busy for a Sunday, so definitely make a reservation in advance. Highly recommend!"
Denise Moh
"Exceptional visit. We are NZers and love finding new places to visit on our ‘home turf’. We wanted to visit the Sculpture Trail but when we looked online dining was fully booked for the Sunday. We arrived at 10.30 on the Sunday and the friendly team said they could offer us a Brunch or Lunch booking. We booked for lunch and headed out on the trail with a takeaway coffee in hand.
The sculpture trail is exceptional - not just for the 60 scupltures but for the birds and birdsong. The Kauri loop was stunning!
Food wise - lovely, attentive, staff who explained the menu, exceptional wine tasting flight for $16, great starters and mains. V good value for money.
Highly recommend if you love either or all nature, sculpture, alfresco food!"
David Dewhurst
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Brick Bay Sculpture Trail is located in Matakana, about an hour's drive north of Auckland CBD. The easiest way to get there is by car. You can rent a car or use a ride-sharing service. Public transport options are limited and time-consuming, often involving multiple bus transfers.
Yes, ample parking is available at Brick Bay for visitors. It's conveniently located near the cafe and the entrance to the sculpture trail.
Absolutely! Brick Bay makes for a fantastic day trip from Auckland. Combine it with other Matakana attractions like the farmers market or nearby beaches for a full day of exploration.
The cafe and restaurant areas are generally accessible. However, the sculpture trail involves walking through native bush and can be uneven in places, so it may not be suitable for all mobility levels.
The driving distance from Auckland CBD to Brick Bay Sculpture Trail is approximately 70-80 kilometers, typically taking around 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the sculpture trail itself is generally free, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any updates or special event ticketing. The main cost is for dining and wine tasting.
Brick Bay Cafe and Winery typically opens daily from around 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the sculpture trail accessible during these hours. It's best to confirm exact hours on their website before your visit.
Yes, you can visit the sculpture trail without dining at the cafe or restaurant. Many visitors enjoy the walk and then head to the cafe for a coffee or wine tasting.
While there aren't typically formal guided tours, the trail is well-marked, and information about the sculptures is often available on-site or via their website. The natural beauty and birdlife are also a major draw.
The sculptures on display are part of an exhibition, and while some may be for sale, it's best to inquire directly with Brick Bay or the artists if you are interested in purchasing a piece.
📸 📸 Photography
The sculpture trail offers numerous picturesque spots, especially where art meets nature. Look for compositions with the sculptures framed by native trees, or near the water features. The Kauri loop is particularly photogenic.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's advisable to check Brick Bay's specific policies or contact them directly before flying a drone on their property to ensure compliance.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful, soft light that enhances both the sculptures and the natural landscape. Midday sun can be harsh, but can also create interesting shadows.
Many visitors find the larger, more abstract pieces and those integrated into the natural environment to be highly photogenic. The variety ensures there's something to appeal to every photographer's eye.
Yes, you are welcome to take photos inside the cafe and restaurant, especially of your food and drinks. However, be mindful of other diners and respect their privacy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Brick Bay Cafe offers delicious, seasonal, and locally sourced fare. Expect light, fresh dishes with an emphasis on quality ingredients, perfect for a leisurely lunch or brunch.
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend lunches and brunch. The venue is very popular, and tables can book out well in advance.
Reviewers rave about the lamb and snapper dishes. The affogato is also frequently mentioned as a standout dessert. Don't miss trying their house-made smoked beetroot butter with sourdough.
Yes, Brick Bay offers an exceptional wine tasting experience, often with a flight available for a reasonable price. It's a great way to sample their wines before or after your meal.
While the menu focuses on seasonal ingredients, it's best to check with the cafe directly or look at their current menu online for specific vegetarian and vegan options, as these can change.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, or grab a takeaway coffee and a treat from the cafe to enjoy during your walk. While the cafe is popular, booking ahead is crucial if you plan to dine. The open spaces and the visual stimulation of the sculptures can keep children entertained, making it a pleasant experience for the whole family. Remember to dress them in comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking outdoors.
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
Pair your wine tasting with a delicious meal at the cafe, where the menu is designed to complement the wines. You can also purchase bottles of their wine, olive oil, or honey to take home as a memento of your visit. The knowledgeable staff can offer recommendations and insights into their winemaking process.
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Art Lovers
Wear comfortable walking shoes and allow plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere. The trail is well-maintained and offers a peaceful escape from the city. It's the perfect place to combine a leisurely stroll with a dose of culture and natural beauty, making it a highly recommended spot for a rejuvenating day out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of the Trail
As you wander, you'll encounter a variety of flora and fauna, with the sounds of native birds often accompanying your exploration. The Kauri loop, in particular, is a highlight, showcasing the majestic Kauri trees and offering a deeper connection to the forest. The trail is designed to be explored at your own pace, allowing ample time to appreciate each sculpture and the serene environment. Many visitors suggest taking a takeaway coffee from the cafe to enjoy as they stroll, enhancing the relaxed and contemplative atmosphere.
Beyond the visual art, the trail offers a sensory experience. The scent of the bush, the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy, and the gentle sounds of nature all contribute to a feeling of tranquility. It's a place where art lovers and nature enthusiasts can find common ground, making it a truly special destination for a peaceful and inspiring outing. The ever-changing nature of exhibitions means repeat visits can offer new discoveries.
Culinary Delights at Brick Bay
The dining experience is further enhanced by the attentive and friendly staff who are knowledgeable about the menu and the wines. The wine tasting is a must-do, offering a chance to sample Brick Bay's own award-winning wines. Many visitors find the wine flight to be excellent value for money. Popular choices include their own wines, which pair beautifully with the seasonal dishes.
Beyond the main courses, don't miss out on the smaller delights. The house-made smoked beetroot butter served with sourdough is a frequently mentioned starter that receives rave reviews. For dessert, the affogato is often cited as one of the best ever had. The overall atmosphere, combined with the soothing views and the quality of the food and wine, creates a truly memorable and 'zen' dining experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit