Abstract A one-dimensional transient model of an active magnetic regenerator has been developed. The magnetocaloric properties are calculated using the Mean field theory and the model is used to study the transient and steady state response of a parallel plate regenerator. A parametric study is performed and highlights the influence of the Number of Transfer Units, the Utilization, and the solid axial conductivity. Finally the magnetic field inhomogeneity and the fluid axial conductivity are found to have no significant influence on the regenerator performance.