Many months ago LAA asked distinguished landscape architect Frank Boffa to name a project he was particularly proud of. He was reluctant to name a specific piece of work, partly because most of it has been collaborative.

However after some reflection he emailed his answer. His own garden - “which is to my mind, a delightful piece of eclectic landscape developed over 25 years,” he wrote. “Perhaps the most rewarding, enjoyable, constantly evolving ongoing project I have undertaken. It has been on budget, on time and the client is very pleased with the outcome!”

He chuckles when I remind him of this - he’d like to retract the “on budget” part of that quote. But it is true the garden at his and Vicki’s 1.3 hectare property is his favourite place, and his most satisfying project. He finds it contemplative and relaxing. So much so that he still spends most of his free time there.

When the couple bought the boggy, blackberry covered site in Waikanae the landowner couldn’t believed they’d chosen the “grottiest” section of the four he was selling. But after looking for the right site for two years the Boffas immediately saw its potential. It had everything they wanted - native vegetation, a clear area and a very damp area, perfect for digging a pond.