Scotts Landing Mahurangi
This Ridgetop property in Scotts Landing (ongoing project) contains a number of logistical challenges including high winds, dominant clay soils and access issues. Nonetheless every problem has a solution and we set about creating functional areas for growing food using existing native bush as wind shelter. Ramped access and steps have been provided between levels and raised beds (macrocarpa + saligna) were the natural choice to get above the dominant clay and create a well-drained environment for growing food and flowers.
An initial plant-out has also been carried out on a steep east-facing hillside (hardy pioneer species of harakeke, koromiko, nikau, ti-kouka, houpara, etc). Slimline rainwater tanks have been discretely installed against a retaining wall for irrigation (connected to a bore). Development is ongoing in 2025.
Carl & his team have done an incredible job on our particularly tricky & challenging site on the Mahurangi Harbour. I had read testimonials on his website and he has absolutely lived up to the high praise of his clients. It has been a very big job, done in stages over a couple of years while we were having our house built. Carl is collaborative and has a very considered and patient manner in interacting with us. He used drones to gain an understanding of the contours of our land which also really helped us to envision the design he was developing. In addition he was very mindful of our budget – which we appreciated.
The overall concept needed tweaking over time and Carl returned to site many times to talk us through various plant species and layout options, providing great ideas for appropriate plant choices. His depth of knowledge regarding clay soil and our coastal environment ensured the right plants were chosen for optimal growing given the conditions. The plants that went in on our steep eastern bank a year ago have taken off & are looking healthy & lush. We’re looking forward to the latest round of planting enjoying the growing season ahead.
Carl’s planting team are lovely & easy to have on-site and worked so efficiently together, often on steep land in challenging weather… they have a great process.
Janine and Nigel