New Zealand’s gardens are amongst the best anywhere on earth. Ross Tour leader, Paula Benneian shares tales from her recent visit to the South Island.
Landing in Christchurch on the SouthIsland of New Zealand for an 11-day trip, a few things become clear: the vibrancy of the landscape, the hospitality of the people, and the seamless blend of New Zealand native plants in both English and Japanese style gardens.
Experiencing gardens from both the Marlborough and Hurunui Garden Festival allowed us to witness a remarkable variety of gardens in two distinct regions. Each garden was vastly different from the next, ranging from absolute exposed ocean front locations to lovely country gardens nestled amidst mountains, from tiny workers' cottage gardens to sprawling acres of greenery. Garden owners welcomed us at the gate with the most gracious hospitality, and their strength, creativity, and can-do attitude shone through in the gardens they had created.
Riot of colour
A burst of vibrant hues welcomes the arrival of spring in New Zealand! The gardens we explored were alive with color: peony beds meticulously cultivated for cut flowers, rhododendrons in various creams and pinks flourishing beneath deciduous trees, wisterias cascading from pergolas and draping along verandas, and a profusion of blooming perennials like aquilegias and delightful roses. Additionally, we marvelled at the clever use of simple terracotta pots, densely planted with succulents that burst forth with flowers—a straight forward yet highly effective idea.
We left these gardens brimming with inspiration, having gleaned numerous ideas from the passionate and visionary gardeners who brought these incredible landscapes to life. As they guided us through their creations, we witnessed the trials and evolutions of garden beds, their endeavors to unveil breathtaking vistas while safeguarding the gardens and property from the unforgiving winds, and the sheer dedication apparent in their hard work. The gardens were undoubtedly remarkable, but it was the people behind them who truly left an indelible mark of inspiration.
Blue House Amberley
A young garden at only 10 years old with so much to see, Jenny is an artist by trade and she has created the loveliest garde. Her creativity and artistic flair is evident in the plant combinations, meandering pathways, lovely little potting sheds, pergolas to relax in and take in the views of the garden. We left Blue House Amberley with lots of gardening tips and ideas such as looking and feeding the microorganisms in the soil rather than the plants which in turn nourish the soil, encouraging healthy tough plants.
Hortensia House
Huguette acquired this property for its stunning natural spring, which serves as the centerpiece of her garden. The crystal-clear water forms the foundation, complemented by a Monet-inspired bridge, around 150 hydrangeas, a vibrant array of flowering plants, and strategically placed trees that shield the garden from strong winds. There sult is a breathtaking landscape that captivates the senses. Huguette aptly named the property Hortensia House, translating to ‘hydrangea’, in homage to the garden's star feature.
Giants House
It is hard to describe the feeling of entering The Giant’s House Garden in Akaroa. How does one set out to create a garden like this? So unique, crazy, colourful and a lot of work, it takes an artist and horticulturist like Josie Martin to build a garden like this, one colourful tile at atime. We were lucky to also get a private tour of her house which was truly a privilege.
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