From traditional box hedging and topiary through to copious exotics, hanging and climbing vines and of course plenty of structural elements such as the fountain, bird houses, and sculptures coming from the on-site shop there is inspiration in abundance here.

Craig’s style for his own garden is self-described as eclectic, dramatic, theatrical and even a bit over the top, it is hard to imagine the plain lawn that once was. Craig’s vision-radar peaked immediately on viewing the old Mayor’s house and land (it’s a stretch to call a lawn a garden!) from completely renovating the house and of course, the three-time gold winner at the Ellerslie Flower Show could not resist creating this stunning garden.

The rooms are reflective of Craig’s whims, memories and desire to be surrounded by colour and texture. The heights, colours and shapes of the ‘pots-a-plenty’ have allowed Craig to expand the garden without sacrificing designated spaces. You’ll note that Craig has perhaps run out of space on the ground to continue creating, not deterred, Craig thought outside the garden box and went up! Covering the verandah is an ornamental grapevine, a white Mandevilla vine rests over an archway and several window boxes of bright flowers and herbs adorn the house.