about vero

Hello, my name’s Veronica. Thanks for visiting.

I began designing and planting gardens in my hometown, Wellington. I originally trained as a graphic designer & illustrator and had been working in the design industry for about 20 years when I had an epiphany that I needed to combine my design and illustration skills with my love of gardens, plants and nature.

I re-trained in garden design and construction at Weltec in Wellington in 2005, and started taking on commissions. In 2019 I moved to Ophir in Central Otago, where I have been enjoying the new challenge of designing gardens that speak to and thrive in this inspiring landscape with its unique climate and genius loci. I run my own business and pull in expertise – especially on the construction side of things – as required, and I do love the hands-on joy of planting for clients if requested.

My approach to designing gardens is both pragmatic & intuitive; gardens need to be practical, work for the clients’ needs and function within set conditions, but also be beautiful and remain inspiring as they mature and grow. I am not anti-chemicals, but I do favour natural solutions wherever possible to nurture soil, plants and creatures in all their guises, including us!

Responding to your brief and creating a concept that is right for you and the place you are, and seeing that concept come to life is probably the most satisfying work that I can imagine doing. 

I look forward to helping you create the garden you would like to grow.