The garden was established by the Hawkins family in 1984 on a former sheep farm.
The onsite water system is gravity-fed, utilizing a series of interconnected ponds and dams created by the owners.
It is frequently cited as being larger than the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne.
The hedge maze contains over 2,000 individual plants requiring precision annual trimming.
The garden uses a private water catchment system that supports both the horticultural displays and the agricultural needs of the surrounding estate.
Mayfield Garden is one of the world's largest privately owned cool-climate gardens, spanning approximately 160 acres near Oberon, New South Wales. The property is divided into two distinct sections: the 20-acre Mayfield Garden, which is open year-round, and the broader 140-acre Hawkins Family Private Garden, which opens seasonally. The landscape features an intricate network of water features, including a 16-metre waterfall, stone bridges, and expansive rock pools. The woodland valley area incorporates large-scale plantings designed for four distinct seasonal transformations. Visitors have access to diverse recreational zones, including a giant hedge maze and croquet lawns. The site is situated on a working high-country property, emphasizing sustainable water management through its large-scale irrigation dams. Horticultural maintenance is ongoing, with sections of the grounds transitioning between European-style formal aesthetics and native Australian plantings.
The stone bridge overlooking the waterfall in the main Water Garden.
Wear sturdy walking shoes as the terrain includes significant inclines and gravel paths.
Bring a layered jacket, as the high altitude in Oberon results in temperatures significantly lower than in Sydney.
Download the garden map before arrival, as mobile phone reception can be intermittent on the property.
Attempting to walk the entire 160-acre estate without checking which sections are open, as the Private Garden is only accessible during seasonal festivals.
The 140-acre Hawkins Family Private Garden is only open to the public during seasonal harvest festivals in autumn and spring.
Stay on marked paths to protect delicate ground-cover plantings; no drone flying without prior estate approval.
