Rose Cottage
Nine years ago Dan and Sue Hughes embarked on a journey to turn a quarter acre of flat lawn into distinct outdoor spaces each with a purpose…
20 Upper Plain Road
Masterton
In keeping with their house, a historic Whatman cottage built in Masterton in the 1920s for returning soldiers, the small garden spans three distinct areas: formal, entertainment and productive.
The formal area, close to the front entrance displays 45 rose varieties including Sir Edmund Hillary and Dublin Bay, clipped box hedging and a home-made waterfall feature. Beside the fishpond is a calm spot to sit and watch them dart about while listening to the cascading water.
Peeking under the wisteria, along the boundary fence you’ll notice Dan’s unique working Garden Railway.
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Follow the train throughout the garden. The entertainment area flows through to the productive areas. Raised vegetable garden beds, a chook house, a hydroponic shed, and rain-water collection to irrigate the garden all showcase sustainable gardening in action.
Ornamental cherry trees shade the decking area where Dan and Sue enjoy relaxing in summer. It’s a place to stop and reflect on their hard work; a place to de-stress and slow-down. Rose Cottage garden is a joy they share together.
A newcomer to Pūkaha’s garden tour, this is the first time opening to the public.