From a finance graduate to Young Landscaper of the Year, Jarod Anderson has built Christchurch-based Anderson Landscapes on craftsmanship, communication and understated confidence – determined to position high-end landscaping at the centre of residential construction planning Jarod Anderson didn’t follow the typical pathway into landscaping. After finishing high school, he enrolled at Otago University and completed a BCom in finance. It didn’t take long to realise the corpora

Primary ITO qualified landscaper Sarah Moorhouse loves working with the team at New Concept Landscaping to create attractive outdoor spaces that clients delight in. Sarah, 26, initially worked in a plant nursery before deciding she wanted to move into landscaping. She applied for a role at New Concept Landscaping in Te Awamutu and when the offer of an apprenticeship was made, she jumped at the opportunity. She says learning on the job has been a great option. “I found the pra

With granny flats set to be exempt from requiring a consent in early 2026, many homeowners are seeing an easier path to adding a second dwelling to their properties. However, with site coverage limits still applying, increasing the build footprint could cause an issue when it comes to paths, driveways and carparks. That’s where Permcon permeable concrete can offer a practical and sustainable solution The government has passed the Building and Construction (Small Standalone Dw

Storms and flooding can wreak havoc on landscaping projects – from newly laid gardens washing away to erosion undermining retaining walls. Builtin construction insurance expert Ben Rickard outlines the key risks for landscapers and the steps you can take to protect your business, your clients, and your bottom line As weather events become more intense and frequent, storm and flood damage are among the most significant risks landscapers face. The financial impact can stretch w

The transformation of a 2100m2 Palmerston North property saw Total Landscape Solutions reimagine the section into a series of connected outdoor spaces that have opened new possibilities for family living When homeowners Stu and Kate talked to architects about updating their Palmerston North home, they were asked a simple question – rebuild or restore? “We were asked if we wanted to build a new home. But we wanted to do the old house up, because it was unique and had good bone

Retaining walls in New Zealand are no longer treated as background infrastructure As sections become steeper and outdoor spaces more closely integrated with architecture, level changes are now central to both design and construction. For today’s landscape specialists, retaining walls must deliver structural performance, clean detailing and long-term durability. Raising the material benchmark Timber sleepers and masonry blocks have long been common solutions, but expectations

Have you been getting consents for low-risk jobs that don’t require them? Or worse, carrying out work that does require a consent without getting one? Perhaps you’ve heard the news about granny flats but aren’t sure the exact details? Schedule 1 of the Building Act details what building work can be carried out without a consent; this article highlights common exempt building work that landscapers may be asked to carry out, including an update about consent-free granny flat re

You’re sitting at the computer, staring at the numbers for what feels like the 100th time today, while your client waits for your quote. If you can relate to this scenario, you need to read this article by Next Level Tradie Daniel Fitzpatrick Pricing isn’t just about winning work, it’s about building a business that pays what you’re worth, covers your costs and gives you a healthy profit at the end of the month. After coaching thousands of trade business owners to get more wo

When Matt Morrison left school on Sydney’s Northern Beaches and picked up a shovel for a two-week work experience placement, he had no idea it would set the foundation for a life in landscaping Now, alongside his wife Becs, he owns and runs Total Landscape Solutions in Palmerston North – a company known for its professionalism, strong communication and diverse skillset. Following his placement, Matt completed a four-year trade apprenticeship in structural landscaping in Austr

Mitre 10 offers every paving product landscapers might need – from concrete to porcelain paving. Check out our top product picks below! Rusk Terrazzo paving range by Horizon International is a premium paving solution designed for residential and commercial applications – and is available at Mitre 10 now! These concrete pavers are New Zealand-made and crafted using advanced Italian hydraulic press technology, applying 750T PSI pressure to create dense and durable pavers. This

If you’re considering training for your landscaping team, there’s never been a better time. With the Apprenticeship Boost continuing in 2026, enrolling new or existing staff into a Primary ITO Landscaping Apprenticeship is an opportunity not to be missed Employers taking on a new apprentice, or looking to enrol existing team members, may be eligible for $500 a month, per apprentice, through the Apprenticeship Boost. This payment is made directly to employers to help retain an

Trees are integral to our health and the environment. They stabilise the soil, support wildlife and sequester carbon – as well as adding colour and interest to outdoor spaces in all seasons. In this article, horticulture expert Rebecca Hughes from Blue Mountain Nurseries discusses the best trees for small spaces Firstly, trees of all sizes are best planted in autumn and winter. However, if water is available, you can plant all year round. That being said, there are a few thin