Research from the University of Canterbury and Earth Sciences New Zealand suggests that under a warmer climate, future storms similar to Cyclone Gabrielle could become more extreme, triggering tens of thousands more landslides in vulnerable areas of the North Island and highlighting the need for targeted planning. In 2023, Cyclone Gabrielle triggered an estimated 800,000 landslides across the North Island, which researchers say makes it one of the most extreme landslide even

This is a column by landscapers, for landscapers. In it, you'll find knowledge, views and insights from professionals just like you, who are currently working in the industry. THE AUCKLAND LANDSCAPE COMPANY Interviewee: Joseph McLean – Owner & Director Location: Auckland Staff: 6 I don’t think landscaping has ever stood still. Every generation has taken on new tools and new ways of working. AI is the next chapter and that’s a good thing. The younger people coming through are

Few technologies are as polarising as artificial intelligence (AI). One side claims it’s the answer to all the world’s woes. Another vocal minority, including prominent engineers and scientists, believe it could doom us all. Like most things, the truth likely lies somewhere in between. To start with, the term ‘artificial intelligence’ is a misnomer. These systems are not conscious or thinking for themselves, and they’re not self-aware. They’re only able to mimic some of the c

New Zealand’s vocational education reforms have fundamentally changed how landscapers are trained, with independent providers delivering workplace learning and a new industry-aligned body responsible for qualifications and standards. The changes follow the Government’s reform of the vocational education system, which has seen the former Te Pūkenga model dismantled and vocational education return to independent providers. For the landscaping sector, this marks a significant sh

With skilled staff in high demand, investing in apprenticeships and on-the-job training is becoming essential for landscaping businesses across New Zealand, says Primary ITO. Like many industries, landscaping continues to face a skills shortage. Apprenticeships offer a practical solution, growing the number of skilled people entering the industry while helping businesses build capability within their existing teams. Mark Orr, Sector Manager for Landscaping at Primary ITO, sa

Biodiversity is the variety of all living things in a place or ecosystem, such as forests, oceans, rivers, wetlands and even suburban back yards. In this article, Rebecca Hughes from Blue Mountain Nurseries explains how landscapers can make a positive impact to biodiversity with their plant choices. Clean, stable environments with plenty of native biodiversity can produce healthy ecosystems. A healthy ecosystem provides a range of benefits, such as nutrient-filled soils, clea

New Zealand’s top emerging landscaping talent will gather in Christchurch this September for the 2026 Young Landscaper of the Year competition, with Mitre 10 continuing its support of the industry’s future leaders. Taking place at Christchurch Botanic Gardens on 19 September, Young Landscaper of the Year (YLOY) brings together the best talent from across the country – 30 years of age or under – to test their skills, knowledge and professionalism in a demanding one-day compet

From unforgiving salt-laden winds to mercilessly steep terrain, landscaping in Wellington demands careful planning and durable construction. A recent project by local 'legends' Scapegoats demonstrates how designing for long-term resilience is one of the most sustainable choices a landscaper can make. Established in 2015, Scapegoats delivers end-to-end landscaping services with sustainability at its core – something that starts with designing landscapes capable of flourishing

The role of fencing in landscape design is increasingly viewed as an opportunity to enhance the aesthetic of a property, rather than simply to define its boundary. This reflects a broader shift in the way New Zealanders think about their outdoor spaces. Landscaping is no longer about planting and paving alone – it is about creating an extension of the home. Every element is expected to work together to create a cohesive environment, with fencing playing an important role in

Five ways professional landscaping equipment has changed over the past 20 years. Walk through the yard of almost any landscaping business and you'll see more than a collection of mowers, trimmers and blowers – you'll see how the industry has evolved. Twenty years ago, most contractors carried much the same equipment. A petrol mower, a couple of brush cutters, hedge trimmers, chainsaws, fuel cans and a toolbox full of spark plugs, pull cords and hand tools. Equipment was chose

As New Zealand's cities continue to grow, new research suggests incentives could play an important role in helping retain established trees during housing intensification. As part of his PhD in Forestry at Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC), Dr David Pedley investigated whether incentive schemes could encourage property developers to preserve mature trees on development sites. The study explored the views of property developers involved in housing int

As our cities continue to intensify, the conversation is no longer about how many homes we can build – it’s about how we create high-density neighbourhoods without losing the natural systems that make them healthier, cooler and more resilient. New research from the University of Canterbury suggests incentives for developers could help retain established trees during planning and development of new builds. Mature trees do far more than improve the appearance of a street – they

What is the industry outlook of the latest generation of landscape designers? We catch up with two Landscapes of Distinction Student Award winners to get their views. The Landscapes of Distinction (LOD) Student Award celebrates emerging talent in landscape design, recognising students who demonstrate creativity, technical ability and a strong understanding of the profession. While the award marks the end of their studies, it also offers an early glimpse of the people who wil

Disputes are an unfortunate reality for landscaping contractors. Disagreements can quickly arise if expectations, scope and communication are not managed from the outset. The Building Hub's Ben Rickard explains how to protect yourself. Like insurance, dispute prevention starts before the work begins. The difference between winning and losing will often come down to strong systems, clear documentation and good communication. At The Building Hub, we see the same issues arise t