You may have guessed by the creative name for the property that trapping pests is a top priority and key to the regeneration of the native forest. Without the constant threat of being eaten, kawakawa and titoki thrived, kahikatea seedlings sprang up and the light canopy provided the perfect nursery for introduced plantings such as Derek’s native fern, flax and frond garden – inspired by Otari in Wellington. Acknowledging te ao Māori – the interconnectedness and interrelationship of all living and non-living things the circle of life is complete as the lush ferneries and mossy environments reclaim old decaying trees and nature’s rich natural compost of leaves gifted from the canopies above.

The bush walks are similar to those at Pūkaha – peaceful and serene, packed with natives growing in harmony with one another and plenty of bird life – common visitors are kererū, Korimako (bellbirds), tui and piwiakawaka.  It’s hard to imagine that a bustling township is only a few minutes away. 

Throughout this extensive property, you’ll see plants have been selected as fit for purpose and companionship creating layers building from small pops of colour to larger trees and bushes.  The shapes and contours are all complementary to the peaceful environment.  If you look carefully you’ll see that the majority of the planting also considers the birds and bees.  You’ll find roses, irises, clivias, camellias, peonies and kakabeak.  Rhododendrons, tall purple spires of echiums, hydrangeas (raspberry crush – all grown from cuttings).  Sage, rosemary, thyme and lavender are abundant in the garden at the front of the house.