Te Kainga Marire — Maori for the “peaceful encampment” — is a skilfully designed inner-city native garden. Situated in a once weedy New Plymouth valley, it mimics New Zealand’s natural environment. And the RNZIH New Zealand Gardens Trust considers it one of few private gardens of international significance.

The garden wraps around the Poletti-Clarkson family home.  Snuggled up to a coastal swamp forest remnant and pa site, it spills on to the neighbouring river reserve and Te Henui walkway leading to the city and sea.

This is a harmonious garden that weaves subtle textures and colours with quirky forms. Lush ferns, wetland plants, alpine treasures and native trees here make up a microcosm of the New Zealand landscape. This is a gem of Middle Earth.