Carol and Colin purchased this property in 2023 – three years after it was built.  Carol wanted a minimalist garden in green, white and yellow.  Carol and Colin have restructured the garden to achieve her desired minimalist look.  She likes the way this complements the style of their house.
 
On moving in, many of the plantings were removed to open up space, and foliage was taken away from the windows – enhancing the clean lines of the property.
 
As you walk up the drive your eyes are directed to the lush star jasmine which has been trained to climb up the wall by the front entrance. This evergreen climber with rich, dark-green leaves displays a mass of white flowers in the warmer months. Moving around the garden, you’ll be treated to further such features - green foliage on white walls.
 
The expanse of lawn – both in the front and at the back of the house is meticulously kept thanks to Colin – who is now the owner of two ride-on mowers and a hand mower. Colin’s care of the lawn and edges is obvious. He successfully keeps the weed grass Paspalum under control; timber garden edging has recently been upgraded to stop bark and soil from being thrown onto the lawn by the rabbits and birds.
 
Any weed that dares pop a head up is quickly removed by Carol who constantly monitors the garden to ensure it retains its desired appearance. She admits to being a novice gardener but loves picking the Alstroemeria to bring into the house.
 
Out from the main living area is a sun-protected space to relax around the plunge pool with BBQ and seating, while around the far side of the house are citrus and raised vegetable garden beds where the couple grows a range of vegetables to keep them satisfied all year round. Olive trees add another dimension to the “green theme” while gardenia and magnolia contribute to Carol’s love of white.
 
Carol and Colin didn’t hesitate for a moment when they first saw the property.  They immediately knew it was the place for them and didn’t bother to look any further.  Carol admits they have had to get used to the Waikato weather – being accustomed to the sub-tropical climate of Orewa with the salt and wind blowing up to the elevated section they lived on.
 
Although they loved ocean views – they now enjoy the greenery that abounds around their current home – a substitute for the sea.
 
Bev Maul-Rogers