Nestled in the middle of St Heliers and adjacent to the significant native Dingle Dell Reserve, Fern Gully features a remnant bush stand and overland flow path that bookends the property. Following a new house build in 2023, there was an opportunity to update the landscape’s legacy to reflect current needs, strengthening the useability while adding value at the same time.

Set amongst remnant native bush, playful boardwalks provide safe access into the immersive landscape creating loops for discovery, adventure and activity. Designed to bring joy for tamariki of all ages and stages, including parents, the space is designed to grow up with the owners children.

With zero waste in mind, selective removal of one declining tree opens up the area and brings natural light where needed, helping to address damp areas. The proposal frames the existing water course, leaving this untouched while introducing sub-canopy native planting and riparian species will overhang the water channel giving the illusion of a natural stream. Reuse of site-won materials such as felled tree trunks, existing basalt and concrete paving is an important feature to reset the new legacy going forward.

Location: Tāmaki Makaurau (2026)
Client: Private
Role: Project Landscape Architect