Explore gardens & galleries filled with incredible art, Matakana
5
Explore gardens & galleries filled with incredible art, Matakana
By Sculptureum
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About
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-100
Duration: 90–120 minutes
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
- Entry into Gardens and Galleries
- Entry/Admission - Sculptureum
- Wheelchair accessible
- Pushchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Infant seats available
- Transportation is wheelchair accessible
- Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 440206P1- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Most travellers can participate
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 440206P1
From
$49.50
per adult
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- IMIUBU20 contributionsInhospitable greetingVery disappointed in this activity. We had just visited Matakana where as it was 12:40 we bought a couple of sandwiches and headed to Sculptorium . We did not know they had a restaurant there. When we arrived I asked if we could purchase some drinks and sit on their out door tables by the food truck ( there was no one eating at the time) . The person there “welcoming us “ and selling $50 each tickets said no we have our own food here and you can’t bring yours. Not very hospitable. We were so annoyed we did not even attempt to see the place.Written 25 January 2025
- beckyg560 contributionsWorth a visitHad to most wonderful day visiting scupltureum. Can not find any faults with my experience at the attraction today. We were first greeted by Karen who helped us sort our tickets, explained the layout of the place and gave us a brief history of it. Karen was professional, friendly and engaging. Linda was also extremely helpful and was another very passionate member of the team. The sculptures themselves were fab and the art galleries were great! There is no time limits either so we cruised our way around and took loads of pictures. By the end I felt so inspired by both the art and the sense of community that the staff had created.Written 14 January 2025
- Wanderer6781970 contributionsAwesome Experience!An awesome experience! Well worth a visit!! Plenty to see and much that is photo-worthy. Excellent food and wine options.Written 12 January 2025
- Alcacar0 contributionsWonderful experience but difficult to get toAmazing to think all this art was two people’s private collection and how wonderful of them to offer us the opportunity to see it all in the most lovely surroundings - including their shop. Wonderful diversity of artists from Chihuly to locals. So it was high on our list of things to do in Auckland. However, on searching we found it to be virtually impossible to get back from, unless you have a car. The only option appeared to be tours where it was included as one of several stops. Through your FAQS we found NZDriver and although we inquired before we left Canada we never received a response. Fortunately inquiries to our airport taxi driver on arrival in Auckland enabled us to arrange transportation to and from. It was worth it!!!Written 12 January 2025
- DayTrip528496996990 contributionsA highlight experienceMy partner and I found our visit exceptional. The art on display was magnificent and of great variety. We have both traveled extensively around the world and found our visit amongst the best we have seen The exhibition is of a quality all ages can enjoy. I was told that at 98 I am the oldest visitor but I believe that it is a life experience for all ages The many philosophical views displayed on large easy to read boards are inspiringWritten 10 January 2025
- dawnsackett0 contributionsA Sculpture Park like no otherThis is a very special place to go and visit. The most beautifully curated exhibition of quirkiness. I loved the contrast of all the amazing exhibits against a black background, both outside and in. I also especially enjoyed the thought provoking quotes as you wound yourself around the pathways. If you are going to Matakan please don't miss going here.Written 1 January 2025
- philshar0n0 contributionsalways amazingAwesome place to visit - extremely well laid out and beautifully kept facilities/gardens. Staff are always friendly and helpful. Was our second visit in 12 months, enjoyed the first visit so much had to take family from overseas to visit. A number of new exhibits since we were last there.Written 31 December 2024
- derasmus20100 contributionsA worthwhile outing!So wonderful to have people willing to share their possessions with others! An absolute pleasure to walk thro the Sculpturium - such interesting varied artworks!Written 24 December 2024
- CreativeChick990 contributionsArtist's First VisitFriends from Australia loved their time at Sculptureum - coming away inspired and delighted with what they had seen. I was delighted with many new works (as well as old favourites) on this my third or fourth visit.Written 24 December 2024
- leaholford0 contributionsgreat variety and enjoymentThere are many genres of sculpture, including natural forms (huge rocks). Having outdoors and indoors displays makes it like an adventure.Written 23 December 2024
- pdA6929JB0 contributionsA visit not to be missedWhat a great experience, beautifully manicured lawns, well maintained gardens and such a peaceful environment to be in with the seating benches all the way through the well thought out pathways and different areas. There is plenty of reading to do but not a requirement as it's just nice to 'just be' and absorb the serenity of what Sculptureum brings. Fills the soul, impressive even down to the huge rabbit and turtles.Written 19 December 2024
- Curiosity491338085260 contributionsAn inspiring visitWe thoroughly enjoyed our visit to the Sculptureum. The variety of art works, sculptures, quotations along the way, and quirky objects made this a very enjoyable and fulfilling walk through beautiful gardens and then inside to the art gallery area. We strongly recommend a visit to everyone - art buffs and non-art buffs alike. Allow a couple of hours, or longer, for this visit.Written 11 December 2024
- MegLJ0070 contributionsBeautiful visitWhat an amazing place. It started from the warm welcome from our host who let us know about where to go, right through to the grand finale at the secret garden. Not only were the sculptures and art amazing but so were the gardens and the design of the whole place - it was magical. Thank you.Written 5 December 2024
- Inspire467776006680 contributionsWowWow such an amazing place and collection. It was a bit sensory overload by the last part. HIGHLY recommend visiting this amazing placeWritten 29 November 2024
- harvard10780 contributionsWorth the time, worth the cost.It wasn't one my bucket list to visit this place, I was asked by my partner to go with her. I didn't know what to expect, I thought it would be a few sculptures in a garden. Even if you are 'not into art' don't let that stop you from visiting this wonderful garden. It's well worth the time spent. I would advise going on a nice day as much of it is outside, although there is an indoor exhibit as well. I thought the whole thing would take a couple of hours but walking around and gazing at the exhibits it too my partner and I three hours. So, while I wasn't expecting much, it was well worth the time and effort. Go and see for yourself.Written 20 November 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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5.0
130 reviews
Excellent
121
Very good
5
Average
2
Poor
1
Terrible
1
Lesley H
Sydney, Australia110 contributions
Mar 2024 • Couples
We had no idea what to expect of this tour as the tickets were gifted to us by a family member as a surprise for our last day in New Zealand. It was an easy 45 minute beautiful coastal drive from Auckland's North Shore and we avoided the motorway and took the Hibiscus Coast drive which was worth the diversion and not much longer or slower and probably with less traffic.
I've been in galleries all over the world and this one was the most beautifully and thoughtfully curated that I've ever encountered. We followed our lovely guide's advice and wandered through the outdoor garden first which was beautifully crafted and grown with thoughtful information posts containing just enough text to explain concepts and the artists and materials without being overwhelming (as was the case in Te Papa in Wellington last week). It was a joy to see a wonderful tribute to Steve Jobs in one of the gardens as he's a personal hero of mine and his inspirational garden was formed so thoughtfully. A lunch segue gave us one of the best pizzas I've ever had from the pizza truck made by a real Italian hence why they were as good as those I've had in Italy. $25 for a dinner plate sized pizza was pretty good for NZ prices. Unfortunately the restaurant was closed so maybe check if you're going there and want to eat there. Following lunch we sauntered through the indoor galleries and pink snail garden. The indoor collection was stunningly curated with black walls, beautiful presentation cases and framing and an explosion of colour. Even the ambience was thoughtfully curated with perfect music, cool floors and air conditioning and again the perfect amount of information about each piece. You can sense that the owners Andrew and Sandra love and cherish their art and have chosen each artist on his or her merit and display pieces from all over the world. If you love art and gardens DO NOT MISS this outing. It's worth every cent and you'll depart feeling calm and nourished.
I've been in galleries all over the world and this one was the most beautifully and thoughtfully curated that I've ever encountered. We followed our lovely guide's advice and wandered through the outdoor garden first which was beautifully crafted and grown with thoughtful information posts containing just enough text to explain concepts and the artists and materials without being overwhelming (as was the case in Te Papa in Wellington last week). It was a joy to see a wonderful tribute to Steve Jobs in one of the gardens as he's a personal hero of mine and his inspirational garden was formed so thoughtfully. A lunch segue gave us one of the best pizzas I've ever had from the pizza truck made by a real Italian hence why they were as good as those I've had in Italy. $25 for a dinner plate sized pizza was pretty good for NZ prices. Unfortunately the restaurant was closed so maybe check if you're going there and want to eat there. Following lunch we sauntered through the indoor galleries and pink snail garden. The indoor collection was stunningly curated with black walls, beautiful presentation cases and framing and an explosion of colour. Even the ambience was thoughtfully curated with perfect music, cool floors and air conditioning and again the perfect amount of information about each piece. You can sense that the owners Andrew and Sandra love and cherish their art and have chosen each artist on his or her merit and display pieces from all over the world. If you love art and gardens DO NOT MISS this outing. It's worth every cent and you'll depart feeling calm and nourished.
Written 3 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Some people say on Trip Advisor that Sculptureum is "world class" but not many know enough about Art Galleries to understand why the Galleries at Sculptureum are so different from other Art Galleries.
Leslie H is a rare person. She has noticed such things as the colour of the Gallery walls (black); the colour of the floor (red); the different way descriptor panels are worded; the font and positioning of the descriptors; the use of music; the curation of the playlist; the positioning of the works in relation to each other; the inventive use of framing; the exploitation of colour; and a lot of other features that I have implemented at Sculptureum.
Thank you for your review, Lesley. Your words of encouragement are much appreciated.
Please come back when you're next in Auckland. I arrange for new installations every two to three months or so, and Sculptureum keeps getting better.
Anthony Grant
Written 4 April 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Flyer34660576858
3 contributions
Dec 2024 • Family
The gardens are beautiful and inspiring but the artwork is particularly incredible. I strongly recommend reading all the information about each piece as you walk around, as you’ll get a better understanding and appreciation of the artist, their intention, and the importance of the collection as a whole. The public is lucky to have access to this amazing place! To keep young children engaged, you may ask them to count the sculptures of dogs, lemurs or animals in total. They may even be inspired to go home and make their own sculpture!
Written 27 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thankyou for your five star review and encouragement. I recommend reading the information about each piece too as it gives such a greater understanding about the works - as you have mentioned. Thankyou for visiting us at Sculptureum - we appreciate your visit and hope to see you again one day.
Written 30 December 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Karen C
1 contribution
A wonderful place to visit. The gardens with everything they offer are tranquil with wonderful displays and are incredibly well maintained. The gallery is truly exceptional with such an amazing display of incredible artworks which would appeal to everyone although I wouldn’t recommend for younger children. The way the paths lead you through the grounds has been so well thought out as has the indoor artwork display. It is a must if you are in the area or worth the drive if you aren’t!
Written 12 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thankyou for your five star review and encouraging comments. So pleased to hear how much you enjoyed your visit. Believe it or not younger children also enjoy Sculptureum - in a different sense though (particularly the large pink snails and other wonders). We look forward to having you join us again one day.
Written 12 November 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
drmpt
Sydney, Australia53 contributions
We spent an afternoon at the scultureum and had an excellent time. While it is a little pricey we found it to be well worth it. There is a lot to experience - an indoor gallery, an outdoor gallery and a garden through while to stroll. We spent an hour and a half here but could easily have spent an extra hour. The art is by local and international artists and is of a very high standard. Much of it is quite quirky and will generate discussion. And there is a lot to be seen. My only regret is that we hadn’t stumbled upon this earlier. Highly recommended.
Written 8 February 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thankyou for your five star review and recommendations. We look forward to seeing you again one day.
Written 10 February 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nigel M
6 contributions
Mar 2024 • Family
First time visitor from Northland who booked online for both myself and my wife to attend. Excellent welcome by reception staff and great intro to the gardens. What we saw was fabulous and exceeded my own expectations. I recommend this and would consider returning at some stage with other family members and friends.Loved the thought of clear and easy access to all areas, great flow and info to look out for ensuring not to miss other sculptures. Umbrella access also impressive.
Many thanks
Many thanks
Written 1 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thankyou for your five star review and comments. We look forward to seeing you again sometime.
Written 5 March 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Alipa50
Wellington, New Zealand1,673 contributions
A unique and captivating destination for art and garden enthusiasts. Situated in a lush, scenic setting, the park is home to a stunning collection of outdoor sculptures that seamlessly blend with the natural surroundings. With over 100 sculptures on display, visitors can explore a wide range of artistic styles, from abstract pieces to more realistic representations including profound quotes from famous people.
One of the highlights was the diversity of artists featured, showcasing both local and international talent. The life sized sculptures themselves were clever and thought-provoking.
We spent a couple of hours looking around and had the restaurant been open would have stayed longer. Well worth the entrance fee.
One of the highlights was the diversity of artists featured, showcasing both local and international talent. The life sized sculptures themselves were clever and thought-provoking.
We spent a couple of hours looking around and had the restaurant been open would have stayed longer. Well worth the entrance fee.
Written 24 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thankyou for your five star review and encouraging comments. We are grateful that you decided to spend some time with us and look forward to seeing you again one day. Happy holidays.
Written 25 December 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jeff S
Cairns, Australia4 contributions
Dec 2024 • Family
A not-to-be missed cultural experience. On my return visit to NZ from Australia, my initial response when invited by a family member to attend the Sculptureum at Matakana was one of general interest. However, on attending the Sculptureum my response soon turned to profound appreciation for the diversity of sculptures in the gardens, the amazing collection of modern art in the indoor galleries, the profound words of printed wisdom and the meticulously kept grounds. Thoroughly recommended for anyone seeking a change from the more conventional attractions of Auckland and Northland, equal only to the Hundertwasser Museum at Whangarei.
Written 10 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thankyou for your five star review and for your general interest to come along. So pleased to hear your visit became much more than anticipated. Much appreciated.
Written 13 January 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Christine H
4 contributions
What to do when you land at 10:00 in the morning and don’t have access to your room until 3:00? Heading to the Sculptureum was a perfect choice. This sanctuary has beautiful winding paths through a curated garden. The scattered benches allow resting for weary travelers. The sculptures and thoughtful quotes are inspiring. We were surprised by the large art gallery with diverse and creative offerings. They have snacks and a wine tasking too! The restaurant was under renovation when we went so we headed down the road and ate at a restaurant along the river at Matakana Market Kitchen which was also good.
Written 13 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thankyou for your five star review and recommendation. We are grateful for your visit. I hope you will have the chance to join us when our restaurant relaunches in December 2024 - it promises to add more to the experience with us at Sculptureum. Safe travels and all the best.
Written 13 November 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kelly G
12 contributions
Dec 2024 • Family
Me and sister loved sculptureum, we was there for hours taking picture and reading all the positive quotes around the areas. It was a beautiful day and met amazing, friendly staff, both karen and Linda where very helpful, giving us information on how it started etc. The art gallery are also really cool. Would definitely recommend and go back.
Written 14 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thankyou for your five star review and for joining us at Sculptureum. We appreciate your visit and are so pleased that you enjoyed your time here. Hope to see you both again one day.
Written 15 January 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
J-Squared
Gold Coast, Australia26 contributions
Spent our last day in Auckland and came across this gem of a location, regrettably we only spent 2 hours here when you could appreciate the art for far longer. The staff member Inna went above and beyond to give us an enjoyable experience and was a delight to discuss the art with. Highly recommend.
Written 30 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thankyou for your five star review and encouraging comments. I will also pass your feedback on to our lovely Inna - much appreciated. We hope to see you again one day. Safe travels.
Written 1 October 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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