From Germany to Queenstown
Time spent learning the trade in Germany gave Queenstown landscaper Luke Brinkmann-Kroemer an unusual start to his career – and a grounding he’ll put to the test at Young Landscaper of the Year
Luke Brinkmann-Kroemer | Project Manager | Diva Landscapes | Queenstown
Originally raised in Queenstown, Luke spent several of his teenage years living in Germany and, when his schooling there ended, he found himself considering career options.
“I knew that I wanted to do something outdoors because I was pretty sporty and I like physical stuff. I couldn’t see myself being in an office job,” he says.
Landscaping stood out among the trades he considered. Luke initially intended to try it for a year but enjoyed the work and was encouraged by his employer to begin an apprenticeship.
The German system exposed him to a wide range of outdoor construction and landscaping work, with three weeks spent on the job followed by a week of classroom learning.
That experience proved valuable when Luke returned to New Zealand, where he initially worked in landscape maintenance and progressed to leading a team.
It was a subsequent move into construction that really cemented his interest in the industry.
“That’s when I really realised, ‘Wow, construction is just so much better’, and that’s where I found my passion,” he says.
Luke then spent several months in Australia before moving back to Queenstown and joining Diva Landscapes, where he has been part of the team for around three years.
His role has developed into project management, although he remains fully on the tools. He also meets clients and quotes jobs, giving him experience across the practical and management sides of landscaping.
Ready to compete at Young Landscaper of the Year 2026
Jack was first approached about entering Young Landscaper of the Year (YLOY) last year but decided he wanted more experience before putting himself forward.
When the opportunity came around again, he felt ready.
“I want to learn everything about everything in this industry – like a jack of all trades,” he says.
His strongest areas heading into the competition are hard landscaping, particularly paving and timber work. With Diva Landscapes having a dedicated planting team, Jack admits plant knowledge could prove more challenging.
That prospect doesn’t faze him. Learning is one of the main reasons he is entering.
“I’m keen to see how other people do things, compared to what I do, because everyone has different approaches. I’m keen to learn new tricks and tips as well.”
There is, however, another motivation.
“I’m quite a competitive person. I don’t really like losing,” he laughs.
For Jack, YLOY offers the chance to test the practical skills he has accumulated across two countries while learning from a small group of other young landscapers.
“I think it’s a great life experience to have under your belt.”
Young Landscaper of the Year will be held at the Christchurch Botanic Gardens on 19 September, with 10 finalists competing across a range of practical and professional challenges.
