Rain‑soaked first visit, sunshine second time round and still loved it both times.
I’ve now been to Gibbs Farm twice and each time in very different weather. The first visit: Non-stop torrential rain.
The weather gods were much kinder during my second visit — blue skies, warm spring air and plenty of time to really explore. Both visits left their mark, because this place is something special.
What is Gibbs Farm?
Gibbs Farm is a private, 400‑hectare property on the edge of the Kaipara Harbour (about 47 km north of Auckland).
What makes it stand out is the sheer scale and ambition of it: sprawling farmland turned into an open‑air sculpture park with massive commissioned artworks by major international artists.
Over the years, owner Alan Gibbs has collected and commissioned pieces that sit alone in the landscape — hillsides, paddocks, gullies — making the setting part sculpture, part nature, part surreal art walk.
How you gain access
One of the quirks is that Gibbs Farm throws open its gates only on select days of the year, usually as part of fundraising events for charities. So you’ll need to plan ahead, keep your eyes open and book once you come across tickets.
You’ll need a car to get there, check in at the gate (they’ll indicate which carpark to use) and then set off on foot. Bring good walking shoes, weather gear (if needed), water and sunblock — because yes, it’s a walk (3 hours or more if you want to see a lot) and the terrain is hilly.
And there’s not just art: the Gibbs Farm animals
One of the superb side‑elements: wildlife. Yes, it’s art first, but you’ll also bump into exotic animals roaming the property — emus, giraffes, alpaca, water buffalos and Highland cows call the farm their home.
We found ourselves pausing, not just for the art, but for the giraffe in a paddock, the curious emu, the goats grazing beside a sculpture. It adds a layer of delight.
Why go back?
Because every time you visit, you see something new: a different angle on the art, different light, different weather, different mood. Because it’s rare to find a place that blends art, nature, animals and landscape like this. Because I want to show it to friends and maybe next time linger even longer.
If you ever get the chance to go to one of the open days for Gibbs Farm — grab it. Rain or shine, you won’t forget it.
For more recommendations: Exploring Auckland – My Favourite Spots.
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