1982
Act
Information
Official
the
under
Released
1982
Act
Information
Official
the
under
Copyright
The copyright of the methodology contained within this document remains the property of Woodhouse Associates, Landscape Architects.
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Contents
Introduction
4
Act
Garden management
5
General policies
6
General management principles
7
Priority 1 zone
9
Priority 2 zone
15
Priority 3 zone
45
Other elements
47
Information
Figures
Figure 1 – Priority Zone map
58
Figure 2 - Isthmus Group Map 04 – Buildings, built features and cultural elements
59
Figure 3 - Isthmus Group Map 02 – Significant views
60 Official
Figure 4 - Potential sites for commemorative trees
61
the
Appendices
Appendix 1 - L. Beaumont - Conservation Plan for Government House Grounds
Policies 1 – 11 and intervention Policies 1 – 6 63
Appendix 2 – Garden design principles
73
under
Appendix 3 - List of commemorative trees
77
Bibliography
78
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Introduction
Garden description
1.
Government House, Wellington is the official residence of the Governor General of New
6.
The garden can be divided into four significant zones which reflect their visibility and usage
Zealand, the representative of New Zealand’s head of state, Queen Elizabeth II.
by the Vice Regal family and visitors.
(See Figure 1)
Act
2.
The building and surrounding grounds are located in the suburb of Newtown close to
7.
The
Priority 1 zone (Formal or Ceremonial) comprises the gardens around the house,
Wellington’s central business district. The site was previously occupied by the Mount View
which are intensively used and are consequentially more formal in character. The zone
Lunatic Asylum and has numerous visible relics from that era. The current house is the
includes the public approaches to the house including the Entry Gateway and Carriage
third house on the site; was completed in 1910; is an historic building in its own right and
Drive; the Asylum Wall area and its environs; The Dell; the slopes on the eastern side of
is now considered a landmark presence in Wellington. The site is an important part of New
the Carriage Drive between the Asylum Wall and the Swimming Pool; the North and South
Zealand’s 20th and 21st century ceremonial, public and constitutional history and its
Lawns; the Swimming Pool; the Hospital Road entrance including the Office Carpark and
heritage value to the nation is significant.
the Visitor Centre and the Potager.
(These spaces are also identified on See Figure 1)
3.
The grounds provide an appropriately scaled aesthetic setting for the dwelling and a variety
These are the areas where ceremony associated with the Governor General’s office are
of well-designed spaces for the range of private and ceremonial functions that are carried
undertaken and they are required to have a high degree of amenity and presentation as
out by and on behalf of the Governor General. They have strong symbolic and
befits the status of the Governor General’s office and the visitors.
commemorative value as a planted record of previous Vice Regal office holders and
8.
The
Priority 2 zone (Recreational) comprises less intensively used spaces, that may be
visiting dignitaries and they contain nationally significant historic exotic vegetation, which
seen from the ceremonial areas or they may be walked through from those areas. These
Information
is a distinctive character-defining element. The garden is also endorsed as a garden of
spaces are away from the house and in areas that are less visible, or they are not used as
National Significance by the NZ Gardens Trust. (www.gardens.org.nz) and it contains
frequently. They include the outer gardens; the Drummond Lane environs on the west
notable trees recognised by the Wellington Council. There are also two increasingly
side of the Carriage Drive; the Birch Walk; the Tri Nations Border; The Pine Grove; the
significant ecological areas to the west and east of the house on the western slopes of
Conifer Border; The Factory Woodland; Coronation Dell - Upper and Coronation Dell –
Mount Victoria which are currently covered in mature pines over regenerating native bush.
Lower.
4.
This Garden Management Plan sets out Objectives and Policies for the management of
9.
The zone also includes recreational areas on the east side of the Carriage Drive including
the Government House grounds. The Management Plan period shal be for five years from
the Holyoake Dell; the Tennis court / Airing court area; the Olive and Citrus orchards; the
official acceptance of this document and the direct actions outlined in the document shal
Old Vegetable Garden / Amphitheatre area; The Orchard; The Maintenance Yard Lawn
be undertaken within the five-year period. At the end of the five-year period the
and The Maintenance Yard.
Official
Management Plan should be reviewed; any new development shal be identified and an
10.
There are four staff houses around the grounds and the gardens around them are also
estimate of the costs of that development shal be provided.
included in the Priority 2 zone.
11.
These spaces are used by the Vice Regal families, staff occasional official visitors and the
public on open days. The spaces require a more relaxed level of management
the
Context
12.
The
Priority 3 zone (Environmental – Ecological) covers the Hospital Hil area and
includes two separate areas. The western most area is located around an old quarry to
5.
Government House, Wel ington is set amongst 12 ha of land that stretches from the
the south west of the house and an eastern area is located across the western slopes of
western flanks of Mount Victoria to the suburb of Newtown and it forms an important part
Mount Victoria. The Hospital Hil area is ecologically important – native regeneration under
of Wellingtons ‘green belt.’ The northern third of the property is a very narrow strip of land
a cover of mature pine trees and the spaces may be accessed from near the Pine Grove
either side of the main entry driveway that runs off Dufferin Street. The land widens
and through the Old Vegetable Garden / Amphitheatre areas.
through the middle of the site and the southern half of the site is roughly rectangular in
13.
The
Priority Four zone (food production) covers the individual areas used for the
under
shape and it contains the house; two large lawns and accessory buildings. An area of
production of food crops for using in the house including the potager, the citrus and olive
mixed residential and commercial land lies along the western boundary. (Newtown)
groves and extensions to that area, the Old Orchard area and the New Orchard area. They
Hospital Road and the buildings of the Otago University lie to the immediate south,
are working landscapes but none the less must have a high degree of amenity and
Wellington College is located on the north eastern boundary and Alexandra Park (public
presentation.
open space) is located on the south eastern boundary. The land is sloping and there are
14.
Additional elements in the garden which must be considered include the guardhouse at
no natural waterways on it.
the Dufferin Street entrance and garaging to the west of the house.
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15.
s6(d)
archaeologically sensitive areas, the intent of their layout and the intent of the historic
plantings as a designed landscape.)
25.
Protect and preserve the symbolic and commemorative value of the North and South
16.
Health and safety are also of paramount importance and extensive health and safety
lawns, the Central Asylum building footprint, (Asylum Wall and surrounds) the Airing Court
Act
policies cover both grounds maintenance and Vice Regal and public use of the grounds.
(current tennis court area) and the parts of the Hospital Road access with visible historic
17.
The grounds of Government House are open to the public on request and guided walks
infrastructure.
around the grounds focus on the history of the gardens.
26.
Preserve and protect the historic character defining qualities and landscape fabric
18.
Garden management includes Swimming Pool, Tennis Court and pathway maintenance
including sweeping lawns, the Dufferin Street carriage gates and Carriage Drive, views in
as wel as invasive weed and pest control and rubbish collection and disposal.
to the site, views out of the site and views within the site conserved,
27.
Recognise and protect the significance of the contribution that planted site fabric, including
early and commemorative plantings, the sweeping lawns, exotic borders and significant
General principles
collections of plants and more recent ornamental plantings make to visual amenity where
possible.
19.
Management of the site should preserve its most important and significant historic
28.
Plant material is a living material; it will change over time and it may need to be pruned;
elements but should also allow improvements appropriate to the time. However other
replaced or removed. The development of robust principals around planting design and
elements also affect how the garden is perceived and these include how the spaces are
detailing within the various landscape units within the site will ensure that:
defined, how the spaces flow from one area to another, how strategic views are unveiled,
Information
•
plant material requiring pruning or replacement is identified and treated
how the historic elements in the garden, including the walls, gut ering and historic trees
appropriately.
are treated, and how commemorative planting is acknowledged, and these must be
•
Planted gardens retain a high degree of visual amenity,
considered at all times.
•
Ecological resilience is woven into the site,
20.
The spaces within each of the zones have a moderate to strong sense of visual
29.
Make the regeneration of the Priority 3 Zone (ecological area) through to resilient climax
containment based on landform and surrounding vegetation and their management
native bush a priority.
reflects the type of ceremonial, constitutional, community or private uses each area is put
30.
Garden management and maintenance must be consistent, appropriate, adaptable
to. Therefore, pprioritizing management of the garden ensures resources are used in the
affordable and to a uniformly high and sustainable standard.
most appropriate locations, thus balancing the management cost of the property.
Official 31. Ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health safety and welfare of the Vice Regal
office, staff and visitors to the property.
32.
The garden’s rich cultural and natural heritage combined with vegetation and landform
General objectives
creates a distinctive garden landscape that is a potentially important visitor attraction both
the
21.
Acknowledge that Government House and the grounds are home to the Vice Regal
for the tourism industry and for the local community and businesses and as the grounds
families and they must provide an enjoyable outdoor environment for them, their visitors
are open to the public from time to time they should meet visitor expectations as a historic
and the incumbent families and staff.
record and as a designed landscape in the 21st century.
22.
Recognise that the way the grounds are used by the Vice Regal families and the public
33.
The potential to increase visitor numbers by sharing the garden and stories about the
may change over time and that the grounds may need to be adapted to meet these needs.
garden should also be recognised. The garden management regime is encouraged to
utilise carbon neutral policies such as:
23.
Preserve and protect the heritage value of the site in New Zealand’s 20th and 21st century
ceremonial, public and constitutional history by adhering to the policies listed in The
•
Reducing fertiliser usage – the application of nitrogenous fertiliser should be
under
Beaumont Conservation Plan, particularly those elements listed in section 6.4 - table
strategic and sparing
entitled ‘Degree of significance,’ identified on the
Figure 2 - Isthmus Group plan number
•
Avoid gas powered tools – use bat ery run tools
04. (Appendix 1 is a list of policies developed by Beaumont for working with heritage
•
Turning the gardens into a carbon sink – leaving as much of the site undisturbed as
elements within the grounds.)
possible
24.
This means recognising, respecting and conserving the historic designed intention of the
•
Reducing water consumption by mulching to conserve water: using drip irrigators on
site, as both a Victorian-era asylum landscape; as an appropriately called aesthetic setting
timers and using plant species that cope with dry periods.
for the house and as the ornamental grounds of Wellington’s Vice Regal premises. (This
34.
Compost all garden waste and reuse compost on the site
includes not only the remaining above ground constructed artefacts but also the site’s
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General policies
49.
However, changes in the growing environment (increased shade or effects of climate
change) may impact existing plants and their resilience. Trees or shrub that are too old:
35.
Retain the swimming pool and tennis court for the private use of the Vice Regal family and
have died or are in decline, I.e. exhibit leaf loss of more than 10%, shal be removed and
Vice Regal guests, Government House staf and the Official Secretary.
replaced in the first planting season (May to August inclusive) after they have been
Act
36.
Identify areas and artefacts requiring restoration, renovation, redevelopment, or
removed preferably with the same species or a similar replacement species that wil thrive
replacement and ensure that they are treated appropriately;
in the growing conditions.
37.
Retain the current broad layout of the rest of grounds as a park like garden with a mix of
50.
Replacement planting must not draw the eye or detract from the open expanse of the
plants appropriate to the site and the use of the site.
lawns or the activities upon them, but it may provide localized interest.
38.
Protect and preserve distinctive character-defining historic vegetation such as the areas
51.
s6(d)
of the earliest tree planting, (pine grove) where possible
39.
Preserve and protect commemorative trees as a planted record of some Vice Regal office
holders and visiting dignitaries.
40.
Retain the nationally significant vegetation such as the conifer collection located within the
grounds. (Conservation recognizes that trees may grow too big for a site or may die from
time to time and allows for their removal and / or replacement.)
41.
Ensure any new design and detailing of garden areas within the site has a high degree of
Information
visual amenity and is ecologically resilient.
52.
A strip of land -1m wide – shall be retained along all boundaries it shal be kept clear of
42.
Make appropriate use of indigenous vegetation when undertaking new or replacement
any vegetation over 300mm high.
planting.
53.
Boundary vegetation above boundary fences or walls shal be retained at a minimum
43.
Maintain the grounds, including the pool, tennis court and pathways to an agreed high
height of 2m above the wall or fence. Boundary vegetation includes branches.
standard that is consistent with best landscape, horticultural and arboricultural practise
54.
Vegetation providing screening throughout the site shal be predominantly native with
and as a New Zealand’s Garden Trust (nationally significant garden) five star minimum
exotic ornamental planting used to enhance the spaces.
standard
55.
Herbaceous material may be used to temporarily fil gaps left if vegetation has had to be
44.
Preserve the most significant of the views from the site across Wellington and from
removed in any of the borders. However, no herbaceous perennials - other than
Wellington into the site
Groundcover in the Dell areas - shal be used as permanent display in the borders around
Official
45.
Employ people with appropriate skil and qualification levels to undertake all aspects of
the Priority 2 Zone. No more than 20% herbaceous perennials may be used in The Priority
the work in the Government House Grounds.
1 Zone borders. Annuals are permitted as a temporary cover.
46.
Use Machinery and techniques when undertaking maintenance that are fit for purpose and
56.
The planting style around the North and South lawns shal emphasise the lawns principal
sustainable.
use as ceremonial and arrival areas and provide a background for these activities
the
47.
Investigate opportunities to maximise land use for both social (community) and
57.
Shrub and groundcover species removed from within the internal borders on the North and
environmental, ecological benefit.
South lawns and either side of the driveway shall be replaced within three weeks with
perennial species – if out of the season for planting trees and shrubs.
58.
The
form, line, texture and leaf colour of all planting should not detract from the purpose
Planting policies
of the space or draw attention away from the purpose of the space.
59.
The form of new planting in all of the borders shall be round, oval or spreading. No new
48.
Planting in the Priority Zones 1 and 2 must reflect the broad scale historic design intent
columnar, weeping or pyramidal plants shal be planted in any of the exotic borders.
under
and the visual, functional and horticultural characteristics of historic plant species the broad
Weeping, conical or pyramidal specimens are not appropriate anywhere in the garden
scale layout of the borders; the composition of plant groupings, their form, line, foliage
other than the Conifer border.
type, leaf colour and texture as well as seasonal features such as flower colour and bloom
60.
The line or branching structure of all new planting shal be horizontal through to vase
time, fruit and autumn foliage) and that they shal be matched as closely as possible.
(See
shaped. No new vertical, weeping or pyramidal exotic plants are permitted. Indigenous
Appendix 2 – Garden design principles) Trees and shrubs in the Priority One and 2 zones
specie with a vertical emphasis such as rewarewa (Knightia excelsa) Nikau (Rhopalostylus
shal define the spaces and create backgrounds for more ornamental species in the
sapida) and lancewood (Pseudopanx crassifolium) are permit ed
foreground. They shal be densely planted.
61.
The texture of plants (or foliage size) throughout the garden shal be largely small or fine
(Hebe sp.) to medium sized (karaka – Corynocarpus laevigatus) with big leaved plants
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such as the pukanui (Myrta sinclairi or Hosta sp.) used sparely to draw the eye. Big leaved
species shal be controlled using methods identified on the Weed Busters web site – see
plants must not detract from ceremonial functions on the lawns.
attached.
62.
Open loose branch structure, large leaves, shiny leaves, bright green red, yellow or blue
75.
Al gardens in Priority Zone 1 shal be mulched with good quality aged fine bark chip. Al
leaf colour also all draw attention and shal be used sparingly to create interest and depth
gardens in Priority Zone 2 shal be mulched with weed free compost. No mulch shal be
Act
in the borders. Large leaf ground covers may be used to mark corners, to highlight a certain
used in the Priority Zone 3 although forest duff collected from within the bush in areas free
area of the garden or provide limited visual contrast at a local level.
of weed seedlings may be used as a mulch around new planting in the bush area.
63.
The structure of the planting around the edges of the Dell and along the Carriage Drive
76.
Al lawns shal be maintained as high grade, good quality lawns and edges shal be clipped
edge shal be light and permeable to allow views through into space beneath the trees.
once a month.
Open loose branch structure, large leaves, shiny leaves, and mid to light green leaves
77.
No modification of ground surfaces or gardened areas that requires excavation of more
shal be used around the edges of these areas.
than 5.00m2, or to a depth of more than 400mm shal take place without authority from The
64.
Leaf colour on all background planting in all of the borders around the edge of the site
Operations Manager - Government House. A 5.00m2 area allows for the roots of a tree to
shal be predominantly dark green to act as a foil for more ornamental items in the garden.
be dug out. A depth of 400mm allows a hole for a PB 95 to be dug without authority. Please
Red may be used if it is massed as a feature i.e. massed maples. Leaf colour in the amenity
see the tree protocols.
sections of the borders may be dark to mid green. No new planting with yellow foliage shal
78.
Utility and service areas shal be fully screened from public areas.
be used anywhere. Grey plants may be used on the terrace and in areas facing north or
west. Variegated succulents shal not be used.
Information
65.
Some floral display throughout the year is encouraged (although not required) particularly
Hard landscape policies
in the western border of the north lawn area, around the Dufferin Road entry gate space
and in the Asylum wall area. Flower colour in exotic shrub borders in the priority 2 zones
79.
The tennis court and sealed footpath surfaces shall be blown and cleaned a minimum of
is also acceptable.
3x/week when the Vice Regal family are in residence. At other times the tennis court shal
66.
Flower colour should be generally muted with sparing use of red, orange yel ow and white
be blown and cleaned on a weekly basis and sealed footpath surfaces shal be inspected
as they draw the eye. Perennial flower colour shal be predominantly green, blue, and red
and cleaned twice a week.
violet Contrasting colour shal be used sparingly for effect.
80.
If a severe storm occurs any debris on either the tennis court or the footpaths shal be
67.
Any pastel flower colour including white is acceptable in the Priority 2 zone area. However,
cleared within 24 hours.
it should not dominate the space.
81.
Al unsealed pathways shal be inspected every 6 months to ensure they are safe and
Official
68.
No displays of
annual material are permitted – other than in the Dufferin Street entry area
unobstructed. Any uneven surfaces shal be remedied within 24 hours.
- although annual species may be used to cover areas temporarily barred by the removal
82.
All sealed pathways and the pool surrounds shal be kept weed, moss and algae free at
of plants.
all times. Any uneven or damaged surfaces shal be roped off and then shall be remedied
69.
At all times, no more than 5% of any border shal be bare, unless it is being completely
within one month.
the
refurbished.
83.
Additional inspections are required prior to scheduled garden tours, garden parties, Vice
70.
Tree branches shal be kept no more than of 4 metres above the center of the roadway, 2
Regal visits and state welcomes
metres above the edges of the roadway and pathways and 1.5 m above lawn level.
84.
The water in the Swimming Pool shal be inspected and treated daily Monday – Friday
71.
No perennial or groundcover vegetation shal overhang a lawn edge by more than 50mm.
when the Vice Regal family are in residence. Otherwise it shal be inspected and treated
No shrubby vegetation shal overhang garden paths by more than 200mm. Desirable taller
on a weekly basis. It shal be kept in a litter and algal free state at all times.
trees and shrubs shal have a clearance height of 1.8 metres at path and roadway edges
85.
Rubbish shall be recycled where appropriate.
and 2 metres at path centers. Clearance over the middle of the roadways shal be 4
86.
Al plant debris other than non-compostable plant species such as flax and bamboo and
under
metres.
invasive weed species shal be composted either on the site.
72.
Trees and shrubs requiring pruning along the margins of driveways and footpaths shal be
pruned to form an irregular line – not a hedge.
73.
The Priority 3 Zone bush shal be maintained as a healthy, sustainable and resilient forest
with a dense impenetrable edge along the boundaries.
74.
Maintenance within the Priority 3 Zone shal focus on the eradication of all existing invasive
weed species and exotic species to facilitate natural regeneration. Al invasive weed
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Specific Garden Areas
space with a sense of mystery which leads the pedestrian visitor through to the airing
court areas.
Priority Area 1 (
Formal/ Ceremonial) (See Figure 1)
96.
Entry island planting shal be predominantly indigenous
97.
Tree and shrub planting around the entrance space shall be 80% indigenous.
Act
The Dufferin Street Gates and Carriage Drive
98.
Tree and shrub species through the northern most section of the drive area shal be 70%
Key Factors
indigenous and any new planting in this area shal reflect the dominant characteristics of
the planting around it.
87.
This area extends from Dufferin Street through the gates into the grounds, past the
99.
Tree and shrub planting along the drive at the northern end of the North Lawn (including
gardens inside the gates and up Carriage Drive to the southeastern corner of the house.
the Conifer Border) may be up to 70% exotic.
The Dufferin Street gates and the Carriage Drive are the formal entrance to the
100.
Tree and shrub planting adjacent to the North Lawn shall be 90% indigenous.
Government House grounds. The gates include substantial, ornamental brick pil ars and
101.
Annual planting in garden borders around the outer edges of the entry lawns shal be tall
brick and wrought iron wing walls of historic significance. They lend a sense of dignity to
enough to be visible from the Carriage Drive and shal provide interest from the
the drive and reflect the importance of the residence.
carriageway.
88.
The gardens outside the gates and the gates suggest a transition from the cityscape to a
102.
Annual planting layout shal be informal to compliment the surrounding planting layout.
special place. They create an overall sense of grandeur and anticipation. The large scale
103.
Annual planting shal be changed two or three times per annum
of the gates creates a sense of establishment and formality. The lawns have a calming
104.
No massed displays of flowering species other than the annuals around the entry lawns
Information
effect and create a sense of arrival, and the surrounding annual displays create interest
shal be used along the length of the Carriage Drive.
for arriving dignitaries.
105.
Ivy used on the bank to the east of the house shal be tightly control ed to avoid it
89.
The length of Carriage Drive beyond the gates can be subdivided into a series of 5 spaces
spreading.
each with its own distinctive character. Each space is designed to build on the experience
106.
Because the drainage channels on either side of the drive are of historic significance 70%
of a formal dignified arrival.
of them shal be visible at all times.
90.
Dense planting either side of the actual carriage way screens surrounding adjacent
107.
Edge vegetation shal not impede the free flow of water in the channeling or damage the
buildings, restricts the space and channels views up the drive creating a sense of
historic drainage channels in any way.
movement towards the house. The slow reveal of parts of the house contributes to a sense
108.
Views through to the conifer border, the north lawn and the house from the drive shal be
of impending arrival. Consequently the views from Dufferin Street to the gates, walls and
retained by strategically pruning intervening vegetation as necessary.
Official
guard house, and the views from the drive to the house and flag tower are a very important
part of the history of the house and grounds.
Direct Action
Specific Policies
109.
The retention of the annual planting border inside the main gates should be discussed
the
91.
At all times external views of the gates and the walls shal be kept clear.
92.
Planting around the entry shal provide a background to the gates and enclosure for the
driveway area and shal not detract from the formal, dignified and established historic
The South Lawn / Formal Entry
character of the main gates, walls and guardhouse areas.
93.
s6(d)
Key Factors
110.
This area covers the lawn and the borders on the southern side of the house. The official
under
entrance to Government House is through the South Lawn area. s6(d)
Visitors
94.
The general layout and vegetation type around the existing lawns and borders either side
attending functions in the bal room arrive via the Reflection Pond path at the eastern end
of Carriage Drive shal be retained - layers with the tall trees at the back, shrub species in
of the South Lawn. The western end of the lawn space is also used for official entertaining
the middle and ground cover on the drive edges.
and ceremonies.
95.
The sloping lawns to the east of the north lawn driveway areas shal be retained as lawned
111.
The character of this area is defined by the formality of the entrances to the house, the
open space. They draw the eye away from the house momentarily and also create a small
perfectly symmetrical horse shoe shaped sweep of limestone driveway leading to the Port
Cochere through the lawns, and the formal paved pedestrian access way flowing around
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the edges of a large reflecting pool and into the vestibule for the bal room at the eastern
The North Lawn and its borders
end of the space, the immaculate green of the lawn and the enclosure created by the
Key Factors
surrounding landform and vegetation.
112.
The drive through the lawn creates a sense of movement through the space focusing the
126.
This area includes The Terrace and the trees and borders either side of the North Lawn,
Act
vehicle borne visitor on the Port Cochere as their destination.
which is the setting for of icial entertaining and ceremonies – when the climate permits. The
113.
In contrast, the lawn’s rectangular shape and the crisp clean lines of the rectangular pool
North Lawn is a central static open space, or open-air room connected to the house via The
and paving areas leading to the bal room vestibule create static spaces, which encourage
Terrace. Both The Terrace and the North Lawn gardens are designed in the English
the pedestrian visitor to gather and dawdle.
Landscape style - relatively formal near the house extending to rolling woodlands around
114.
The border adjacent to the house is lightly planted with shade loving, mainly indigenous
the periphery. Although the space can be regarded as a single entity, the terrace and
sub canopy and ground cover species. This planting provides an informal base to the
borders are listed separately to enable appropriate management of each area.
house - nestling it into the wooded landscape surrounding it.
127.
The Terrace is separated from the lawn by a balustrade and steps. However it is not strictly
115.
Al other borders around the space are predominantly indigenous and the borders to the
a space in its own right as the balustrades are low and permeable allowing the terrace space
west, and south west of the space are comprised of densely planted tall trees, shrubs and
to flow through to the North Lawn. The limited amount of paving, lawn and planting on The
ground cover, which completely define the western half of the lawn space relating it to the
Terrace does not detract from the architecture of the house. The space is formal and
house. This planting reinforces the static nature of the space and is appropriate to the use
elegant, the paving is ddiscrete and it provides access between the house and the steps
of the area. Planting emphasizes the principle use of the space as the formal entry to the
and the flowering roses used against the house are a decorative softening element.
Information
house and bal room and provides a background for these activities as well as a high
128.
The North Lawn is a rectangular stretch of manicured grass flanked by mixed shrub and
degree of visual amenity.
perennial borders and massed tall trees. The trees bring stature and scale to the space. The
116.
An overriding design consideration is that the space should showcase New Zealand’s
shrubs reinforce the boundaries of the lawn space and also reduce the size of the space
indigenous vegetation.
at the lower level. (human scale) Herbaceous plants form the ground pattern and interior
decoration.
Specific Policies
129.
s6(d)
117.
Retain the broad layout of the lawn and borders
118.
Ensure planted material in borders around the lawn provide strong but constrained
Official
definition to the space. The planting on the eastern border adjacent to the ornamental pool
The lawn shape combines with the formally placed commemorative cedars
area should be capable of forming a reasonably dense - 70% permeability - spine through
(Cedrus Atlantica) on its northern edge to draw the eye to these views.
the middle of the border within the next five years.
119.
Ensure planting does not draw the eye or detract from the open expanse of lawn used for
Specific Policies
the
formal, ceremonial occasions and entertaining activity but it that it continues to provide
localized interest.
General
120.
Planting around the south lawn shall be predominantly indigenous. No more than 20% of
130.
Retain the formal nature of The Terrace, open expanse of lawn; the character and scale of
any new planting shal be exotic.
surrounding trees and the current shape and layout of all borders. The lawn’s flat, trapezoid
121.
The current planting style immediately adjacent to the house shal be retained. The mix
shape – longer on one side than the other – means symmetrical layout should not be
shal include single and groups of small trees. Shrubs should be no more than 2 metres
introduced.
high.
131.
Planting shal provide a background for ceremonial activities. Planting shall not draw the
under
122.
s6(d)
eye or detract from ceremonial activity but may provide localized interest.
132.
Retain the tall tree planting either side of the borders framing views of the city and harbour
123.
Trees and shrubs over 1 metre high shal not be planted directly in front of windows.
from the house. New planting shal not draw the eye away from the view or detract from
124.
10% herbaceous perennials may be used in any border around the lawn.
views.
125.
No annuals are permit ed.
133.
No more than 5% of any border shal be uncovered by vegetation at any given time of the
year.
134.
There shal be no annual material in the north or east borders.
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1982
The Terrace
The North Border
135.
Vegetation on The Terrace adjacent to the house shal be located close enough together
146.
Vegetation in the center of the North Border shal be no more than 2 metres high to retain
to form a solid wal of vegetation against the building.
views over the city.
136.
Vegetation on The Terrace shal not emerge above the top of the house balustrades by
147.
Al new planting in the North Border shal be dark to mid green to avoid drawing the eye
Act
more than 100mm. Any vegetation above that height may screen views across the lawns
and therefore creating conflict with the view beyond.
from the interior of the house.
137.
The foliage of any new planting on The Terrace shall be dark to mid green and / or grey to
Direct action
compliment the paint colour. No blue, yellow or red foliage shall be used on The Terrace.
148.
Some of the plants in the East Border are affected by the increasingly shade environment
138.
Flower colour on The Terrace shal be pastel pink, or blue or white.
created by expanding pohutukawa branches. Suggested solutions include either pruning
to manage the spread of the pohutukawa, extending the border out into the lawn or
changing the plant species to those which grow in increasing shade.
The West border
139.
The framework of young silver birch (Betula pendula) and pohutukawa (Metrosideros
excelsa) on the western edge of the western most border to the lawn the west shal be
Asylum Wall Walk environs
retained as a potentially major defining element of the lawn space.
Key factors
140.
Flower colour along the western borders shal be predominantly yellow green, green, blue
149.
This area includes all the west sloping land on the eastern side of Carriage Drive between
Information
green, blue, blue violet, violet, through to red violet (pink) with contrasting colours of yellow,
the area known as The Dell located to the north west of the Of icial Secretary’s house and
orange and red used sparingly.
the Swimming Pool to the south. It includes The Del ; the Carriage Drive banks; the Asylum
141.
No more than 20% of the border shal be planted in herbaceous material. It shal be planted
Wall garden and the land either side of Asylum Wall Walk.
used to create visual and seasonal interest, but it should not detract from ceremonial
150.
These Priority 1 spaces on the eastern side of the carriageway are cellular. Each space is
occasions or the views. Herbaceous material should be planted in drifts (not blocks) of
small-scale, intimate and reasonably well defined, creating a degree of unity and harmony.
single species of varying size. The size of each group of plants shal be varied. Patterns
Each space has its own individual character creating a variety of types of intimacy and
of planting along the borders shal be repeated to create rhythm. Planting in lines is not
seclusion. Although the area comprises individual spaces the connecting elements of
acceptable. Herbaceous material may include a limited number of taller spikey plants
dense predominantly indigenous planting dominate the area. It is therefore considered as
strategically placed to create interest.
a single area for the purposes of this document.
Official
142.
No more than 10% of the herbaceous material shal be annual species in the western
151.
Tal vegetation extends almost to the Carriageway edge of each space and amenity
border and these should only be used sparingly close to the house or to fil temporary
planting is limited. Individual spaces are characterised by their use, or by the cultural
seasonal gaps in the border.
artefacts that dominate them. Despite the continuous defining element of the vegetation,
the area suffers from a minor lack of legibility because the same type of vegetation and
the
hard surfacing is used throughout.
The Eastern Border
152.
Planting is predominantly indigenous with some good stands of mature pohutukawa, a
striking group of puka,
(Meryta Sinclairi ) a pleasant small rose garden adjacent to the
143.
s6(d)
Asylum Wall and a small area of succulents being focal points. Lower growing shrubby
vegetation completes the screening between the spaces.
153.
The banks adjacent to the North Lawn are an important part of the physical framework of
144.
Vegetation in the border shal be comprised of shrub and groundcover species only and
the garden. Here landform combines with the dense tree and shrub planting to reinforce
under
shal be 60% woody shrubby vegetation.
the strong physical and visual boundary between the formal gardens immediately around
145.
Al new planting in the East Border shal be dark green to silver / grey foliage with
the house, and recreational areas further to the east.
occasional small patches of red. Changes to species, foliage and flower colour should
154.
s6(d)
continue to reflect the themes set in the Collier design)
155.
The Asylum Wall entry to the Airing Court is a very significant relic of the site’s asylum
history and references key aspects of 19th century mental health theory. It also il ustrates
19th century methods of containing patients, as well as convict made building materials
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and construction methodology from the same period. It is the dominant feature in the space
170.
Exotic flowering shrubs and ground cover may be used in individual areas such as around
and it forms a distinctive barrier between the driveway space and the land to the east.
the perimeter of the Asylum Wall lawns and along the Asylum Wall Walk to frame the
156.
The Carriage Drive banks in contrast, include a relatively small range of plants arranged
features and provide interest .
in a simple modernist style with big groups of single species. The simple lawn space in the
171.
‘Rose flower colour in the bed adjacent to the Asylum Wall shal be the same throughout
Act
middle of the driveway bank acts as a foil to the detailed planting around the north lawn
the border but it may be white, hot pink, red, orange or yellow as a contrast with the dark
and encourages the visitor to move through the space.
bush behind.
157.
The Asylum Wall and the Asylum Walk - to the east of the Carriage Drive reintroduce more
172.
Amenity planting in the foreground in the Asylum Wall space shal compliment the rose
detailed planting - encouraging the visitor to pause and admire the historic nature of the
colour – I.e. white, hot pink, red or red orange or yellow with contrasting colours of blue
artifacts in the vicinity.
and blue violet used sparingly.
173.
The steep banks to the east of Asylum Wall Walk shal at all times be covered in
Specific Policies
appropriate ground cover species.
158.
The heritage value of the Asylum and Airing Court walls - as part of New Zealand’s public
174.
Specimen tree species - including the massed pukanui (Myrta Sinclairi ) - that fail or die
history - shal be protected and preserved by adhering to the policies listed in the
should be replaced with the same species unless they are diseased or environmental
Conservation Plan for the Grounds prepared by Heritage Landscape Architect Louise
conditions have changed.
Beaumont.
175.
s6(d)
159.
The historic intent of this part of the site, as a relic of a designed asylum landscape and as
Information
the ornamental grounds of Wellington’s Vice Regal premises shal be recognised and
176.
No annual displays are permit ed anywhere in the area.
respected and no plant material shal be introduced, or actions taken, which could
177.
The ivy covering the steep banks adjacent to the house and south lawn shal be retained
compromise the structural integrity of these heritage features.
but it shal be tightly controlled to avoid it spreading.
160.
The precise layout of the area including the lawns and borders shal be retained as it
178.
The succulent garden just to the south of the Holyoake lawn shal be retained and
provides logical access to recreational areas through a series of spaces, each of which
enhanced with additional succulents as necessary
.
has its own particular significance.
179.
Plants that get too big for the spaces shal be removed and replaced with a similar species.
161.
The lawns including the steep banks adjacent to the driveway shal be retained as they
(Consideration should be given to the form and habit of each species when placing the
provide a welcome foil and contrast to the densely planted gardens around the house.
plants in order to achieve a pleasant composition.)
They draw the eye away from the house momentarily and also create a small space with
Official
a sense of mystery which leads the pedestrian visitor through to the airing court areas.
162.
The style and content of the existing detailed areas of planting shal be retained and
Swimming Pool
enhanced as they introduce a degree of amenity appropriate to the recreational use of
Key factors
each space and enhances the visitor experience by creating individual points of reference.
180.
This area is located between the Carriage Drive and the area known as the old Vegetable
the
163.
Planting along the upper sections of the driveway shal provide part of the vegetative
Garden / Amphitheatre. The Swimming Pool area has a small kidney shaped pool
framework around the house and North Lawn and shal not detract from the formal,
surrounded by concrete paving, a retaining wall, and steps. s6(d)
dignified and established character of the environs around the house.
164.
s6(d)
A small grass area and some ground cover plants add to the relaxed
ambience. The Swimming pool area contains a small section of wal which is a remnant
165.
Any new planting shal reflect the dominant characteristics of the planting in the area.
from the Asylum landscape.
166.
There shal be no exotic flowering shrubs or ground covers around the lawns or banks
under
adjacent to Carriage Drive (other than in the Asylum Wall area) as they would detract from
Specific Policies
views of The House and the North Lawn gardens.
181.
s6(d)
167.
No annuals shal be used in any part of the zone on the eastern side of the Carriageway
As this is the private garden of the Vice Regal
Drive.
family, planting on the flat ground and lower banks (non-screening) within the pool area
168.
The trees and shrubs in the planted gardens in this zone shal make full use of New
may be changed at their request.
Zealand plant material, and shal have ecological resilience woven into their fabric.
182.
The heritage value of the Asylum Wall within the swimming pool compound shal be
169.
The open space around the Asylum Wall shal be retained as an appropriate setting for
protected and no vegetation shal be introduced, or actions taken which could compromise
the wall and there shal be no further amenity planting in front of the Asylum Wall.
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1982
the structural integrity of this wall in any way. This includes damaging cultivation practices,
Specific Policies
the planting of invasive species, or attempts to repair or modify the wall.
191.
The heritage value of both the above ground and buried gut ering systems and the
(Notes re Swimming Pool area supplied by Louise Beaumont April 2012
pathway alignment shal be protected and no vegetation shal be introduced, or actions
During the redevelopment of this area another smal section of asylum wall was discovered. It is constructed
taken which could compromise the structural integrity of this area in any way. This includes
Act
of prison bricks with the same capping detail as that of the airing court walls. It is approximately 3 metres long
and about 50 cm high.
damaging cultivation practices, the planting of invasive species, or attempts to repair or
The steps beside the swimming pool leading up to the path above were made in the 1990s from bricks
modify the gut ering.
recovered from a demolished chimney so they have no historic significance.
192.
The general layout and vegetation type in the borders shal be retained and planting style
A second section of brick wal located in the same garden, in the same alignment but further north of this
shal not detract from the grandeur of the gates, the entrance to the visitor center or the
section of wall is considered to be contemporaneous with Government House based on the construction of the
route to the house.
bricks.)
193.
At all times vegetation shall be kept clear of the Hospital Hil gates.
Entrance tree grove
194.
The open lawn on the slope to the east shal be retained.
Key factors
195.
Planting around the edges of the drive, the car park and the Office Car park shal be
183.
The formal tree grove planted to the west of the entrance path past the swimming pool and
massed small indigenous trees, low shrub and ground cover species capable of
ornamental pond to the Ballroom is of high visual priority. The location however, is
withstanding the windy conditions inherent in the area.
chal enging due to high winds (Northerly and Southerly). The trees species have been
196.
Shrub and ground cover species used in the border between the car park and the South
changed 3 times, (Podocarpus totara, Libocedrus plumosa and Pittosporum ‘Stephens
Lawn shal be no higher than 1.2 metres high to preserve site lines.
Information
Island’) The Pittosporum - at the time of writing - are handling the wind.
197.
Shrub and ground cover species used within the Of ice Car Park area shal be no higher
184.
Totara have been retained along the west, southern and east (pool side of the entrance
than 800mm.
path). The avenue af ect created by both tree and under planting should be retained.
198.
Red or grey foliage should not be used in the border on the south side of the Visitor Centre.
199.
No annual or perennial planting shal be used in any of the garden borders in this area.
Specific policies
185.
If further changes are necessary a complete redesign of this area should be undertaken,
moving away from the avenue planting.
Direct Action
200.
Retain the agapanthus on the western side of the access road under the existing
pohutukawa
(Metrosideros excelsa) but removal all other shrubs. Deadhead the
Official
Hospital Hil entrance, visitor center and Office carpark
agapanthus immediately after flowering to prevent them seeding.
Key factors
186.
This area includes the land to the south of the Visitor Center including the bank to the east
of the car park and the drive. It also includes the immediate environs of the Visitor Center
the
and the Office Car Park.
Priority 2 zone – western side of the Carriage Drive
187.
The area has been upgraded to provide an appropriate alternative entrance to the house
and car park for staff and visitors. The gates are a significant feature, and their design
Drummond Lane and environs
reflects the age and style of Government House; provides a sense of dignity and reflects
Key factors
the importance of the residence.
201.
Drummond Lane runs from the middle of Carriage Drive west through to Adelaide Road.
188.
The gut ering (both above ground and buried) and the alignment of the path beneath the
It skirts around the base of the North lawn and exits the site after passing under a stand of
wall on the eastern boundary of the carpark are of historic significance and the path is the
pines, (the Pine Grove) on the western boundary. This section of the Priority 2 zone can
under
oldest path alignment on the property.
either be described as cellular, or as a series of small-scale spaces with different passive
189.
The landscape between the gates and the Visitor center is a mix of naturalistic, and
recreational uses. The style of each of these individual areas is very different because
modernist styles with mixed native borders behind the visitor center, massed flax and other
each space has been planted in species appropriate to the individual area’s environmental
ground covers around the edges of car park and drive and specimen trees on the lawns.
characteristics. Each group of plants also has distinctive physical and visual
Planting in the Office car park area is simple ground cover.
characteristics, which create interest.
190.
Recent tree and shrub and planting wil develop spatial definition and a sense of scale
202.
The wider area is designed to be strolled through. Its amenity is based on movement
within the area with time.
through a series of spaces along a walkway, which gives viewers a variety of experiences
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and bbecause the area is distant from the house and visitor levels are lower, a more
between the Factory Woodland and Carriage Drive, and
Coronation Del – lower, which
relaxed style of planting and maintenance regime is appropriate.
is located to the north of Coronation dell - upper.
203.
The areas around Drummond Lane on the western side of the carriage driveway can be
213.
The
Factory Woodland area extends from Drummond Lane along the Adelaide Road
divided into seven separate areas based on landform and vegetation enclosure.
boundary. Planting adjacent to the Adelaide Road boundary is considered screen planting,
Act
204.
The first of these –
the Birch Walk is a small area characterized by a col ection of silver
while the area to the east of this is woodland. The
Factory Woodlands create privacy for
birch.
(Betula pendula) It is located towards the southern end and western side of the north
the Vice Regal Family and other users of the grounds. The areas is also a casual relaxed
lawn. It covers a walkway, which runs in a northerly direction parallel to the north lawn and
forest space with a high degree of amenity. Although the area does not have strong
Carriage Drive and it is an airy, modernist take on the path through the woods. The space
definition along the south boundary, the density of the exotic trees form their own woodland
comprises closely spaced slim silver trunks, a lightly framed overhead canopy of bright
environment: characterised by trunks, an overhead canopy of vegetation and a carpet of
green leaves and a ground floor plane of soft green ground cover.
occasionally mown grass with woodland bulbs beneath the canopy.
205.
The Tri Nations border (Australia, South Africa and New Zealand) is a triangular border
214.
Coronation Dell – upper comprises an irregularly shaped lawn space bounded by the
located on the upper section of the slope between the north lawn and the Adelaide Road
Factory Woodland trees to the west and the tree and shrub planting along the Carriage
boundary. The border itself is bounded by a footpath, which cuts a diagonal slash through
Drive to the east.
It has a basic north - south orientation but expands to flow out onto
the middle of the slope from the southeast to the northwest. And the plants in the border
Carriage Drive at the northern end. Trees define the space to the west and trees and
are appropriate to a dry, windswept bank.
amenity shrubs and ground covers define it to the east. It has a high degree of relaxed
206.
The
Conifer Border is a collection of coniferous species located on a north-facing slope
amenity. It is the only park like space in the grounds with the variety of exotic trees planted
Information
below the North Lawn to the west of Carriage Drive. It is separated from the Coronation
for amenity purposes surrounding it and the planting of shrub and groundcover species
Dell areas, which lie to the north of Drummond Lane, by the lane and vegetation and it is
along the eastern edges of the space is also home to a number of trees planted for
regarded as a fixture of regional botanical significance.
commemorative purposes.
207.
The border is divided into three loosely structured zones of dissimilar size, each of which
215.
Coronation Dell – lower comprises a small secluded oval lawn and pathway in the middle
has its own theme. The eastern zone currently comprises a golden conifer and weeping
of trees towards the northern end of the site. Predominantly deciduous trees surround it
cedar collection with complimentary ground covers. The middle zone is where all the
with the edges of the del being reinforced by exotic shrubbery. It is home to a variety of
unusually shaped species are planted. The western end of the border is planted in tall
tree species, some of which have been planted to commemorate events or people. It is a
coniferous tree species with smaller species planted around their bases to create interest.
pleasant space with a significant amount of amenity which is based on the distance of the
208.
However, the plethora of dramatic twisted and upright forms and yellow and bronze colour
space from the house, its small scale and the privacy afforded by the surrounding and
Official
of many of the conifers within the border all compete, and the combination draws the eye,
covering vegetation.
but it also creates a sense of visual chaos as the strong forms and colours of individual
plants compete for attention.
Specific policies
209.
The eastern end of the border is visible from the carriageway, the whole of the border is
General
the
visible from Drummond Lane and the western end of the border is also visible from the
216.
Retain the existing routes through the area as they are part of a logical circulation system
Pine Grove area and the attention seeking content within these view shafts conflict with
around the grounds.
the more restrained and subtle planting in the rest of the garden.
217.
Reinforce borders in the area with more detailed shrub and groundcover planting that is
210.
The
Pine Grove is a collection of very old and tall Monterey pines.
(Pinus radiata) They
appropriate to each space to provide stronger definition and botanical interest.
have dramatic bare trunks and a solid canopy of distinct vegetation. They are planted on
218.
Replacement planting shall include groups of the same species massed together to form
a grid, possibly to provide shelter from the prevailing winds. The grove is located to the
predominantly undulating compositions with occasional strategically placed focal points.
west of, and downhil of the Tri Nations border it covers both sides of the western end of
219.
Tal er species shal be massed together to create a single focal point. Mid layer species
under
Drummond Lane.
shal be recumbent, (rounded) and shal also be massed together to create undulating
211.
The grove is an important part of the cultural history of the site and the pines by virtue of
form. Ground cover should be prostrate (create a horizontal plane.)
their age, stature and history, have consistently defined the character of the grounds since
its use as an asylum. Lawn flows under them to buildings (of lit le visual value) along the
The Birch Grove
Adelaide Road boundary.
212.
The area to the north of Drummond Lane comprises three separate areas known as the
220.
Ground cover planting under the Birches should have white flowers to reflect the trunks of
Factory Woodland - located directly north of the pine grove area on the Adelaide Road
the birches.
boundary, Coronation Dell – upper, located immediately north of Drummond Lane and
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Tri Nations Border
236.
Replacement tree species close to the boundary shal be predominantly indigenous.
Replacement tree planting close to the edge of the lawn shall be predominantly exotic.
221.
The slope immediately below the Tri Nations path shal be kept clear of additional tree
237.
Shrub and ground cover species are not required under the exotic trees.
planting to allow sunlight through to the Tri Nations border and to allow a clear view through
238.
Shade-loving species capable of providing a complete cover a maximum of 200mm high
Act
to the trunks from the Tri Nations border footpath.
shal be used over the surface beneath the woodland tree planting.
222.
Divide the Tri Nations border into loosely structured zones of dissimilar size, each of which
239.
Existing bulbs under the trees shal be protected as a historic relic of the site.
has its own theme. Tal and unusually shaped species should be used sparingly to draw
240.
Any gaps in the bulb planting shal be replanted with massed drifts of daffodils,
the eye and smaller species should be used to create human scale along the footpath
(Narcissus) jonquils
(Narcissus) and bluebel s
(Hyacinthoides). Additional bulbs should
boundary.
be sourced from the site.
223.
Displays of red, red orange, orange yellow orange and yellow flower colour shal dominate
241.
The bulbs shall cover 75% of the woodland area.
in the Tri Nations Border. Blue through to red violet flower colour shal be used sparingly
242.
Grass under the exotic trees shal be maintained as per other priority 2 areas except in
as contrast
spring when bulbs shal be left to flower and die down.
224.
The Tri Nations garden theme shal not be visible from the North Lawn
243.
Trees and shrubs shal not be permit ed to hang over the western boundary by more than
1metre.
Pine Grove
Coronation Dell – Upper and Lower
Information
225.
The intent of the historic planting in the pine grove shal be maintained with new Pine trees
planted in a loose grid pattern to reflect the historic intent of the planting.
244.
The Coronation Dell spaces shal be retained as one of the locations for existing
226.
Particular care shal be taken when removing trees. Archeological policies shal be
commemorative trees. If an existing commemorative tree dies it may be replaced with a
adhered to.
new tree commemorating a new individual or event- if space permits or the growing
227.
At any one time there shall be a minimum of 50 trees planted in the grove,
environment is appropriate. (Trees grow and may shade out each other) a different
228.
Replacement trees shal be sourced from seed col ected on site and grown on specifically
species may be able to tolerate increased shade)
for the purpose.
245.
Meadow grass in the lower del area shal be mown a minimum of three times per annum.
229.
Planting shal be carried out within 2 years of removal. (Al ows time for seedlings to be
Grass height should be no more than 150mm. A regularly mown grass path, 1.2m wide,
grown)
shal be maintained through the area at all times. A regularly mown edging strip no more
Official
230.
The area under the pines shal be kept free of seedling regrowth.
than 600mm wide shal be retained around the edges of the longer grass.
231.
Trunks shal be limbed up.
246.
Plaques identifying existing commemorative trees should be clearly visible from garden
borders. No new plaques shal be used. The location of new commemorative trees shal
Conifer border
be identified by GPS and recorded. (See Commemorative tree planting policies.)
the
232.
The conifer theme in the Conifer Border shal be retained as an area of commemorative
Direct Action
and botanical interest. However continuing change to the layout of the border is permit ed
247.
Currently the definition of the
Coronation Dell - upper space is poor at the point where
to reduce some of the current visual conflict created by random form, (twisted and upright)
the lawn flows out onto Carriage Drive. If the borders either side of the gap were
and vegetative colour (yellow, blue, red or bronze) placement.
extended slightly to create a concave curve at the top of the slope, the sense of spatial
233.
Any golden or coloured conifers visible from the North Lawn shal be removed and
enclosure would change. A narrow piece of lawn could be retained, extending through to
replaced with informal groupings of taller dark green coniferous tree species such as Yew
Carriage drive to keep the view through from both the drive and the lawn.
under
or Cypress to create a background for the display of the coloured conifers.
248.
The additional areas of garden could be planted in groundcover to retain views through
234.
Any specimens displaying symptoms of cypress canker shal be removed immediately and
from the drive.
replaced with new conifer planting
249.
The upper edges of this slope have been identified as being appropriate for additional
commemorative tree planting.
Factory Woodland
235.
s6(d)
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Priority 2 Zone - Recreation area – east side of Carriage Driveway
end of the Asylum Wall Walk to the east of the visitor’s car park area. It is completely
surrounded by dense native planting to the north, pines and landform to the east, a fence
Key factors
and mature pines to the south and a stand of young maritime pines,
(Pinus pinaster) and
the maintenance yard shed walls to the west. It has its own distinctive character derived
Act
250.
The Priority 2 zone on the eastern side of Carriage Drive includes two small-scale
from the vegetation around it, the slope and the magnificent views available from it. It is
intimate spaces – the
Holyoake Dell and the
Olive / Citrus Orchard areas and four
also exposed to wind from the south and southwest.
larger scale spaces. Indigenous planting covers the slopes to the east of Asylum Wall
260.
The
Maintenance Yard is for the use of the Government House grounds maintenance
Walk and s6(d)
team as a functional depot for the storage of the equipment necessary for maintaining
the gardens and for the occasional storage of materials for running events in the gardens.
251.
The individual spaces in the zone are characterised by their use (recreation) - or function,
The facilities in the year include offices, sheds, hard stand compost areas, material
(maintenance) or the cultural artefacts (Airing Court Walls) that dominate them. Al are
storage areas and some general open space.
defined by the planting which is reasonably dense, and all the spaces have their own
261.
There are five
Residential Houses across the property; a guard house on the Dufferin
particular character. Their elevation and general openness create opportunities for
Street.
connection with the wider site and the greater Wel ington area.
262.
Entry and garages and workshops adjacent to and to the south west of the main house.
252.
Because the Priority 2 zone is reasonably distant from the house and visitor levels are
Three of the houses are located between the Tennis Court / Airing Court area and
lower, a more relaxed style of planting and maintenance regime is appropriate.
Wellington College and two are located to the west of the Hospital Hil entry. The
253.
The residential areas are also included in the Priority 2 zone and are discussed at the
Information
residential gardens are generally surrounded by tall woodland vegetation, have little
end of this document.
amenity planting and have a moderate grade of privacy and ambience.
254.
The
Holyoake Dell s6(d)
255.
The
Airing Court/ Tennis Court area is spread over elevated land located between the
General Policies
residential area to the north and the Old Vegetable Garden / Amphitheatre area to the
south. A tennis court and associated small pavilion, located at the northern end of the
263.
The layout of the wider area shal be retained. Logical access is provided to established
tennis court dominate the space. A footpath below the wall provides a circuit around the
recreational, historic or functional areas.
court and bank area but it is the ‘Airing Court walls’ on the western and northern edges
264.
The dense screen planting along the western boundary of this area – along the eastern
Official
of the slope below the court that are the most important historical feature of the space.
edge of Asylum Wall Walk - shal be maintained and enhanced where appropriate as it
The whole area is an important historic relic from the asylum period because it references
combines with landform to strengthen the edges of the individual spaces.
key aspects of 19th century mental health theory.
265.
The planted gardens in this zone shal have a moderate degree of visual amenity, shal
256.
The
Old Vegetable garden / Amphitheatre area lies on sloping land to the east of the
make full use of New Zealand plant material and shal have ecological resilience woven
the
South Lawn. The shape of this space is reasonably consistent with the shal ow bowl
into their fabric. However, the existing areas of detailed exotic planting shal also be
shape of the amphitheatre spaces and the area is used occasionally for open-air
retained and enhanced as they introduce a degree of amenity appropriate to the
performances. This area is historical y important, as it was the kitchen garden until at
recreational use of each space and enhance the visitor experience by creating individual
least the 1950s. The retaining walls along the western boundary have a strong
points of reference.
association with mid 20th century landscape type and reflect aspects of historic land-use
266.
Other planting in the area shal be 80% indigenous. Exotic species may be used on the
patterns across the site.
edges of the bush planting and as ground cover to introduce amenity.
257.
It is also an important piece of casual open space in a garden that is otherwise tightly
267.
Vegetation in the garden areas shal be comprised of trees, shrubs and ground covers.
under
defined and enclosed. Although the dominant pathway through it has a distinctive east
No perennial or annual species are permitted.
west axis, the shape of the space has a north to south axis, orienting the space towards
268.
The predominant foliage colour of all planting shal to be dark green through to grey
the Airing Court / Tennis Court area.
green. Grey foliage may be introduced sparingly in areas facing north and west. Red
258.
The predominantly indigenous planting surrounding the space creates a link between the
foliage or new yellow foliage is not permit ed.
emerging indigenous forest on the slopes of Mount Victoria to the east and the South
Lawn entry space.
259.
The
Maintenance Yard Lawn is a pleasant area of open space with no defined use at
present. It is an elevated north facing sloping space at the southern end of the site at the
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Specific policies
285.
Eye-catching plants with large leaves or bright green leaves are permit ed, as the space
is large enough to accommodate them without them becoming a dominant feature.
The Holyoake Del
286.
Plants with yellow, red or grey foliage are not permitted.
Act
269.
The Holyoake Dell shal be preserved as a contemplative private space (with a seat,)
from which a view out over the city might be enjoyed.
The Maintenance Yard Lawn
270.
Evergreen shrub planting reflecting the contemplative nature of the space - rounded, oval
or horizontal - shal be retained around the north, west and eastern sides of the Holyoake
287.
The Maintenance Yard lawns – east and west - shall be retained as areas of open space
del .
with dense tree, shrub and ground cover beds along the north and north-eastern borders
271.
s6(d)
of the eastern lawn and along the eastern and southern borders of the western lawn.
The maritime pine planting on the western boundary of the eastern lawn shal also be
272.
Plants with grey foliage may be used in the southeastern corner of the space and behind
retained as a planted area of potential significance.
the seat.
288.
No additional trees shall be installed on either of the lawns unless they are for
commemorative purposes.
289.
Additional indigenous planting shal be installed around the northern, eastern and
The Airing Court / Tennis Court
southern boundaries of both lawns to reinforce existing shrubbery, to create shelter and
273.
The tennis court and pavilion shal be retained for the private use of the Vice Regal family,
to further define the space.
Information
Vice Regal guests, Government House Staff and the Of icial Secretary and the level of
290.
Additional planting shal be 100% indigenous to reflect the nature of revegetation planting
amenity provided around it shal be appropriate to that use.
in the neighbouring Priority 3 zone.
274.
Views to the northwest from the pavilion should be retained.
275.
Any planting that threatens the physical integrity of the Airing Court walls shal be
removed.
The Maintenance Yard
276.
Dense shrub and ground cover beds shal be maintained along the northern and western
291.
The Maintenance Yard shal be retained for the use of the Government House gardens
edges of the space to separate it from the residential dwellings and the Asylum Wall Walk
maintenance crew, as a place to temporarily store infrastructure needed for Government
area.
House events and for overflow parking.
Official
277.
The claret ash on the slopes to the west of the Tennis Court shal be retained and the
292.
The yard surrounds shal be maintained in occasionally mown grass – maximum height
area under them shal be fully planted in spring bulbs.
150mm around a shingled working area.
278.
Shrubby vegetation on either side of the Tennis Court net ing shal be maintained as
293.
Al shingle surfaces shal be maintained in a 90% weed free state and weed and grass
closely clipped hedges.
species shall not be left to seed.
the
294.
Al waste vegetative material from the gardens shal be chipped and stored in bins for
Old Vegetable Garden / Amphitheatre
removal or composted on the site.
295.
Al inorganic material for recycling in the grounds shal be stacked tidily on hard surfacing
279.
The archaeological potential of this area as an historic Vegetable Garden - a feature of
or within a building,
the Asylum landscape - shal be protected by retaining the area as a venue for occasional
296.
Al inorganic material of no further use in the grounds shal be removed within one month
open-air concerts.
of it being placed in the yard.
280.
No specimen tree planting or annual beds shal be located in the lawn space.
297.
Al waste material shal be stored in appropriate containers and emptied once a week.
under
281.
Existing planting around the edges of the lawn shal be reinforced where appropriate with
298.
No loose material to be left lying around to blow.
further planting, to create dense edges to the space.
282.
Enhancement planting around the eastern and southern boundaries of this area shal be
predominantly indigenous bush species, including canopy species, massed together to
Residential Gardens
reflect the nature of the bush on the adjacent slopes of Mt Victoria.
283.
Groups of shrubs or individual small shrubs - to 1m - and ground cover shal provide
299.
Grounds maintenance staff shal undertake all maintenance work including lawn mowing
interest in the foreground and indents of the eastern and southern borders.
and weeding, watering and pruning any garden beds adjacent to the houses.
284.
Al plant material in the borders shal be permanent.
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Released
1982
300.
Grounds maintenance staff shal be responsible for pruning all hedges and the pruning
311.
Species planted at the junction of the bush with the Priority 2 zone shal form a visibly
or removal of shrubs and trees.
layered edge - canopy species, sub canopy edge species and massed ground cover.
312.
No shrubby or woody vegetative material shal be permitted within two metres of the
fences nor shal it be permitted to hang over the fences.
Act
Priority 3 Zone - environmental / ecological
313.
Planted specimens shal be ex Pb3 minimum (Container size) and shal be located at 1
– 1.4m centres in random patterns reflecting the natural patterns of the bush. Species
Key factors
may be massed in small groups of 3, 5 or 7 and ground cover species such as fern shal
be established in appropriate niches to establish a seed source.
301.
The
Priority 3 Zone covers the entire bush /pine canopy area on the steep slopes of
314.
Grass areas shal be mown a minimum of three times per annum.
Mount Victoria to the east and the area known as Hospital Hil to the west. These areas
315.
Existing bush tracks shall be maintained as all-weather tracks.
are slowly reverting to native bush as individual pines fail and the canopy opens up and
316.
Tracks shal be a minimum of 1.0m wide
are increasingly naturalistic. Bush and the pines which cover most of this zone, create a
strong visual backdrop to the southern margins of central Wellington, and help create the
setting in which the house sits.
302.
Whilst the pine cover over both these areas is recognised as having some historic
significance, it is not an appropriate cover for a steep site. It hinders the natural
Priority 4 zone – Food production
regeneration of the indigenous bush, it does not provide good habitat for native bird
Information
species and the open nature of the canopy encourages the rapid establishment of
Key Factors
invasive weed species.
317.
The areas identified as
Priority 4 - Food production are scattered through the Priority
303.
Invasive weed species are present in both areas around the margins of the bush and
1 and 2 zones and they require management techniques specific to the zone they are
throughout the understorey, and these need constant management and control.
located in and the type of food being grown.
304.
Stabilisation of the ground surface, reduction of runoff, suppression of invasive weeds
318.
The potager area - located in a small courtyard area on the southwest corner of the house
and provision of habitat for native bird and invertebrate species are the primary objectives
was designed to enable food species to be grown for the Government House kitchens. It
in the Priority 3 zone.
has four rectangular raised concrete vegetable beds planted in annual edible material.
305.
Consideration may be given to extending the native bush areas by way of revegetation
Borders to the south and west are also planted in edible perennial and shrub species.
Official
planting across both Maintenance Yard lawns. Any planting in these areas must use Eco
319.
The area is buf eted by wind, which adversely affects the growth of the plants.
sourced species appropriate to the ecotone and must have the approval of the
320.
The
Olive and Citrus orchards cover two small rectangular spaces either side the
Operations Manager and Government House advisory group.
pathway from the Old Vegetable Garden / Amphitheatre area between the Airing Court /
Tennis Court area. They are productive orchards as well as small contemplative spaces.
the
Policies
The spaces are planted in citrus and olives on a grid layout. Although the formal layout
306.
Healthy, sustainable and resilient indigenous bush shal be established over time
is inconsistent with the layout of the other spaces in the zone, it works as an orchard
throughout the whole of the Priority 3 zone and this wil require removal of the pine cover
areas because the spaces are well screened from neighbouring spaces and the first view
and enhancement planting of some of the bush species.
of them engenders an element of pleasant surprise.
307.
Maintenance shal focus on the control of invasive weed species and the removal of dead
321.
The
Old Orchard is a small secret area located to the south east of the Old Vegetable
and dying pine trees to facilitate natural regeneration aided by revegetation.
Garden / Amphitheatre area. It has an eclectic range of fruit trees. The orchard trees are
under
308.
Al invasive weed species shal be controlled using methods approved by the Wellington
overgrown with native growth around the edges and the area currently has its own wild
Regional Council. A licensed operator shal be responsible for all invasive weed species
ambience. An additional small area of open space is located to the east of the Citrus
control.
Orchard. This area is no longer used or maintained as part of the open space in the
309.
The priority 3 zone shal be enhanced with additional planting using canopy, secondary
garden because it is hard to access.
forest species and groundcover species endemic to the Wellington bioregion and
322.
The
New Orchard area is a recently planted area of fruit trees located on the northern
appropriate to the ecotone - lower slope, upper slope, gul y or ridge.
side of the Drummond Street Drive close to the entrance. It has an eclectic range of fruit
310.
Planting around the margins of the bush shal form a dense impenetrable edge to reduce
trees planted in it and production of fruit for the house is a priority. Planting is on a grid
edge effects.
and species grown are appropriate to the Wellington area.
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Released
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323.
Opportunities also exist for new areas within the grounds to be set aside for food
338.
The vegetation along the southern and western boundaries of the existing citrus orchard
production.
shal be trimmed to an informal hedge to keep it from encroaching onto the orchard
324.
New areas must be located within the Priority 2 Zone
space.
325.
New areas must located in appropriate soils and in an area appropriate to food production
339.
The small area of open space to the east of the citrus orchard planting should be planted
Act
I.e. not be adversely affected by poor soils, wind or frost.
out in low growing food crop species or in low growing indigenous ground cover species.
326.
New areas should not be readily visible from the Priority 1 or 2 zone areas or should be
340.
The Citrus Orchard section may be extended to the west, but care should be taken to
screened with shrubs or hedging.
ensure that the fruit trees are not visible from the Asylum Walk
327.
A layout plan for the new area shal be submitted for approval from the Operations
Manager and the Government House Buildings and Grounds Advisory group prior to its
installation
The Old Orchard
341.
The Old Orchard shal be retained and production of fruit for the house shal be a priority.
Existing food production areas
Species grown shall be appropriate to the Wellington area.
342.
Planting shal be on a grid.
Specific Policies
343.
Tal er growing species shal be located on the southeastern edge of the space. Smaller
growing species shall be located to the northwest.
Potager
344.
Orchard trees, which are unsuitable or unproductive, shal be removed and replaced.
Information
328.
Retain the general layout and vegetation type in the gardens with minor modification to
345.
Orchard trees, which shade out smaller trees of value shal be removed and replaced.
improve screening from prevalent wind
346.
Al fruit trees shal be maintained according to best horticultural principals including
329.
Retain edible food plants as the principal plant species within the potager beds and in
annual pruning, annual application of fertilizer and management of pests and diseases.
the beds adjacent to the potager to a depth of 3 metres.
347.
Al vegetation surrounding the orchard shal be cut back to the boundary fence or beyond
330.
Al planting should maximize food production. Frequent small changes to the layout are
to ensure the trees receive sufficient sunlight and ventilation to thrive. If this pruning has
preferred to ensure a consistent supply. The aesthetics of the space shal be considered
adverse effects on the structural stability of the surrounding vegetation, the affected tree
when choosing and laying out plants. Group planting is preferred to lines or blocks.)
or shrub shal be removed.
331.
The depth of soil in the potager beds shal be no less than 25mm below the level of the
348.
Occasionally mown grass shal be retained under the trees to maintain a meadow like
Official
surrounding concrete lip
character.
332.
The edge planting in the surrounding borders shal be loosely trimmed to form a relaxed
hedge
The New Orchard
the
349.
Any trees which fail to thrive after a period of two years, shal be removed and replaced.
The Olive and Citrus Orchards
350.
Al fruit trees shal be maintained according to best horticultural principals including
333.
Retain
the
Olive / Citrus orchard area as productive orchard space planted on a grid
annual pruning, annual application of fertilizer and management of pests and diseases.
and develop its dual role as a contemplative sit ing area.
351.
Al vegetation surrounding the orchard – other than the trees in the Pine Grove shal be
334.
Species throughout each orchard area shal be the same E.g. olives to the east and
cut back to ensure the trees receive sufficient sunlight and ventilation to thrive. If this
citrus, olives or Feijoa species to the west. If any species contacts a disease such as
pruning has adverse effects on the structural stability of the surrounding vegetation, the
Myrtle rust or Feijoa Blight it may be removed and replaced with another species.
affected tree or shrub shall be removed.
under
335.
A 75mm deep mulch of 20mm diameter worn river stone shal be retained under all the
352.
Occasionally mown grass shal be retained under the trees to maintain a meadow like
orchard trees and the mulch shall be kept in a weed free state.
character.
336.
All trees in either orchard space shal be pruned annually according to best horticultural
353.
Consideration may be given to extending the new orchard planting to the south of
practise for the species.
Drummond Lane to the west of the Pine Grove.
337.
Hedges around both orchard areas shal be trimmed Bi-annually to maintain a neat
appearance.
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Other elements
s6(d)
354.
Beaumont’s Conservation Plan identifies elements inherent in the fabric of the grounds
Act
such as areas, artefacts and built structure as being of historic significance. Views from,
360.
into and across the grounds have also been an important element of the garden fabric
since the asylum days and vegetation throughout the site have also been identified. For
a detailed list of these important views please refer to the Isthmus Group plan number
04 attached to this report.
Views
361.
355.
The most significant of the views across the Wellington skyline are from the house,
however views from the grounds of the house are also important. These views are
362.
identified on the Isthmus Group Plan number 02 attached to this report as Figure 03.
Information
Views from the house
363.
s6(d)
356.
Policies
364.
Official
357.
365.
the
366.
367.
under
358.
359.
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Trees and tree work
375.
Al trees in the grounds shal be maintained in a safe and stable condition. Trees that
have been planted too close together; are overgrown or misshapen; extend too far over
Key elements
lawns, carriageway, pathways or neighbouring property; compromise the design and
quality of the border, carriageway or footpath or the quality of life on neighbouring
Act
368.
The trees are the most important part of the garden fabric as they create the structural
property shal be managed by either pruning or if necessary, removal.
framework for the garden. They define the boundaries of the grounds, define the spaces
within the grounds, create shelter and shade, frame views and vistas, screen unpleasant
Inspections
sights, create interest, are indicative of the seasons, are of botanical interest, are a
habitat for flora and fauna, are necessary as the lungs of the city, reduce the scale of
376.
A visual assessment of al trees shal be undertaken annually in June / July, (with leaves
landform and buildings to a comfortable level and have a high degree of individual
off) and a systematic assessment of all trees in the grounds shal be carried out every
amenity. Trees also provide much of the historic fabric of the grounds and they are of
five years by a qualified and experienced arborist, using accepted New Zealand
importance because of their age or commemorative associations. Many are also located
Arboriculture Association standards.
over areas of archaeological interest. They form a canopy cover in areas on the western
377.
No climbing inspections shal be undertaken unless a problem is suspected or identified.
side of Carriage Drive. Along the driveway and on the eastern side of the house, they
378.
Writ en recommendations shal be forwarded to the Operations Manager within 4 weeks
are used in association with shrubs and groundcover to form defining edges to space.
of the assessment having taken place.
Final y, they have been used for commemorative and amenity purposes at the end of the
379.
Gardening staff shal be encouraged to observe and report any incidences of newly
north lawn and throughout the Coronation Dell areas.
broken branches die back in the crown of trees, cracks in limbs, peeling bark which might
Information
369.
Trees of particular historic significance are located at the entry gates, on the north lawn,
indicate fungal attack, high incidents of insects on trees or any other abnormality which
in the Pine Grove and in the Factory Woodland and Coronation Dell areas.
might indicate structural unsoundness.
370.
Existing planting reflects the age it was installed. The original planting was eclectic;
380.
Should gardening staff report incidences of concern an inspection of the tree shal be
largely exotic and reflected the type of species that were available at the time and the
carried out by a qualified and experienced arborist, using accepted New Zealand
need for shelter and privacy within the grounds. Over time, other exotic species have
Arboriculture Association standards, within 14 days.
been installed either as amenity or commemorative species inside the shelter of the
surrounding pines. Some indigenous species - not endemic to the region - such as
pohutukawa have been planted to define the driveway and lawns close to the house and
Tree removal
Official
they have developed as the dominant subsidiary species. The dominant species – both
381.
Any historic tree that becomes structurally unsound or threatens the structural integrity
physically and visually - are the pines planted in the late 1800s.
of the house or the safety of those using the grounds shal , where possible, be stabilised
371.
Other native species have been either planted or have established naturally along the
using necessary limbing, bracing works or propping in accordance with accepted NZ
drive and along the western border within the garden. Native species are also
Arboricultural standards.
the
regenerating on the hil sides.
382.
Should a historic commemorative tree be identified as being unable to be retained, a
372.
The safety of people using the grounds is of a paramount importance. The integrity of
written report including the botanical and common name of the tree, its location, the work
the house is also of importance. Regular inspections of tree stock wil reveal problems
required and the reasons it is to be removed shal be submit ed to the Operations
before they become too difficult to deal with. A systematic inspection every five years
Manager who wil seek the approval for the removal from the Government House
may reveal incipient problems.
Buildings and Grounds Advisory group.
373.
Current Government House policy is to make indigenous species the dominant plant
383.
Any historic or commemorative tree that is removed shal be replaced with the same
fabric in the garden, whilst retaining and recognising the non – indigenous character and
species or a similar species approved by the Operations Manager and details of this shal
under
history of the gardens. As a general guide tree species should be 80% indigenous and
be recorded on the database held by the Operations Manager Plaques shal be removed
20% exotic.
and held by Government House as part of the site’s archival records.
384.
Any tree that is identified by a qualified and experienced arborist as presenting an
Policies
immediate threat to life or property may be removed immediately – irrespective of its
374.
No trees shal threaten the structural integrity of the buildings, services or the safety of
historic or commemorative status. A written report including the botanical and common
users of the grounds.
name of the tree, its location, the work required and the reasons it is has been removed
shal be submitted to the Operations Manager within 48 hours. The Operations Manager
will advise the Government House Buildings and Grounds Advisory group of its removal.
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Released
1982
385.
Approval shal be sought for the removal of any other individual tree that is more than 4
Work within the root zone of trees
metres high. Valid reasons for removal may include overcrowding, poor structural form,
inappropriate species and disease. A written report including the botanical and common
392.
No general excavation more than 50mm deep (excluding routine gardening work) shal
name of the tree, its location, the work required and the reasons it is to be removed shal
be undertaken within the root zone of any live tree including historic and commemorative
Act
be submitted to the Operations Manager for approval.
trees.
386.
Approval shal also be sought for any tree that has died, is dying or is diseased. A writ en
393.
No fil other than 50mm of compost or 100mm bark or mulch shal be placed in the root
report including the botanical and common name of the tree, its location, the work
zone of any live tree including historic and commemorative trees. (The root zone is
required and the reasons it is to be removed shal be submit ed to the Operations
defined as a circle around the trunk with a diameter of half the height of the tree for upright
Manager for approval.
trees or a circle around the tree that extends to the outermost tip of the widest vegetation
387.
Al reports shal also be submitted to the Governor General as a matter of courtesy.
which-ever is the greater.)
394.
Should work within the root zone of any tree be required, a report identifying the botanical
Pruning
name of the tree, its location, the reasons for the work, the proposed process and the
personnel involved shal be submitted to the Operations Manager for approval.
388.
Al pruning work in trees higher than 4 metres shal be undertaken by a qualified and
395.
A qualified arborist experienced in the protection of historic trees shal supervise any
experienced arborist using techniques approved by the NZ Arboricultural Association
approved excavation work.
389.
Approval shal be sought for any work requiring more than 15% remediation. A written
396.
Techniques for protection shal include fencing off any parts of the tree to be protected,
report including the botanical and common name of the tree, its location, the work
laying timber decks over the surface of the ground under the tree or other temporary
Information
required and the reasons it is to be pruned shal be submit ed to the Operations Manager,
protection that wil not affect the tree health.
for approval.
390.
The following routine tree work may be carried out without the consent of Government
Records
House:
•
Work requiring less than 15% remediation on individual trees, including dead
397.
Al historic, significant and commemorative or ceremonial trees in Policy areas 1 and 2
wooding and removing broken branches.
shal be identified, located by GPS and mapped with the date of mapping, the tree’s
•
Management (light crown lift) of the pohutukawa on the eastern side of the
botanical and common name, height, condition, age, date planted or approximate age -
lawn to prevent sweeping branches covering the grey border.
if known, reason planted, and significance being recorded on a data base. The database
Official
•
Side crown reduction of trees along carriageways and along the margins of
shal be updated annually. A copy of the database shal be lodged in the Government
footpaths to avoid branches impeding vehicle or pedestrian traffic.
House official archives and copies shall also be kept in the maintenance yard.
398.
Al notable trees should be made available for listing on the RNZIH ‘Notable Trees of
•
Management of trees along the boundaries to avoid branches hanging over
neighbouring property.
New Zealand’ database.
the
Trees in areas of cultural significance
General Tree planting
391.
If it is necessary to remove trees in areas where archaeological material is believed to
exist, the stump shal preferably be left to decay. Alternatively, the hole shal be dug by
Policies
hand under the direct supervision of an archaeologist with the authority of the Historic
399.
The character and the integrity of the plant palette, landscape fabric and qualities shal
Places Trust. If this is not appropriate, a stump, tree spade or backhoe shal be used
be protected and maintained to an appropriate standard for a Vice Regal residence.
under
under the direct supervision of an archaeologist with the authority of the Historic Places
400.
Replacement tree planting in all areas other than on the western side of Carriage Drive
Trust. (For further information on encouraging decay in tree stumps, the appropriate use
or if specifically mentioned in this plan, shal be predominantly indigenous.
of stump grinders, tree spades and back hoes plus guidelines for replanting refer to the
401.
Al historic or commemorative trees removed shal be replaced with the same or a similar
online publication
- Clippings - Replacing Trees in cultural landscapes produced by the
species unless the species used previously was unsuited to the environmental
National
Parks
Service.
U.S,
Department
of
the
Interior
at
conditions.
www.
nps.gov/oclp/
Clippings.pdf
.
402.
Pines in the Pine Grove shal be replaced with
Pinus radiata seedlings sourced from the
trees in the grounds.
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Released
1982
403.
The container size of replacement species used in amenity areas should be no larger
415.
Commemorative trees may be indigenous or exotic, evergreen or deciduous but shal
than PB 95 or the equivalent. (The planting of trees contained in large containers is
complement existing planting surrounding the space where they are to be located.
expensive, requires considerable expertise and maintenance and often leads to failure.
416.
Commemorative species shal be appropriate to the site’s environmental conditions, shal
Using specimens contained in smaller containers is not only price effective, but it also
not compromise the integrity of the landscape and shal not compromise the historic
Act
enables plants to get bet er start; the root to top growth ratio is better and small plants
fabric of the grounds or to reduce their integrity.
are not so prone to wind damage. Smaller plants are also less likely to damage in-ground
417.
Government House shal provide potential donors with a list of species appropriate to the
archaeological material.
site
404.
The container size of replacement shrub and groundcover species shal be no more than
418.
The Operations Manager, Government House shal confirm where potential
PB 5. Larger specimens have poor vegetation to root ratio and struggle to establish
commemorative trees might be located in the grounds each year. The potential locations
without regular watering. Smaller species have been proven to establish well and grow
shal be marked on a plan and submitted to the Of icial Secretary by December 20 h of
fast in these conditions.
each year.
419.
Named exotic cultivars or species shal be acceptable, subject to them being assessed
Direct action
as being suitable for the site by a qualified and experienced landscape architect or
arborist.
405.
An arborist should be commissioned to survey and compile a tree database of all
420.
Al commemorative trees shal be tagged with an anodized aluminium tree tag (predril ed
important, and all large trees over 6 metres. The botanical name of the tree, its common
and with a green background) with an identification number, its botanical name and
name height, estimated age; brief description of its condition, a photograph of it or the
Information
common name and the name of the donor and the date donated.
group within which it sits shal be included in the report. Include in this contact not
421.
Al commemorative or ceremonial trees shal be identified, located by GPS and mapped
included in current contract
with the date of mapping, the tree’s botanical and common name, height, condition, age,
406.
The location of the tree shal be identified by GPS and recorded.
date planted or approximate age - if known, reason planted, and significance being
recorded on a data base. The database shal be updated as events occur. A copy of the
database shal be lodged in the Government House official archives and copies shal also
Commemorative planting – (See Appendix 3- List of commemorative trees)
be kept in the Maintenance Yard.
407.
Commemorative planting is located around the South Lawn, near the northwest corner
422.
No further commemorative trees shal be placed on either the North or the South Lawns.
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of the house, at the northern end of the North Lawn, in both the Coronation Dell areas
and on the lawn slopes to the east of the North Lawn,
408.
Current commemorative planting comprises randomly located trees around the edges of
spaces
the
409.
Plaques identify most of the existing commemorative planting in the grounds.
410.
Some commemorative planting has been unsuccessful because the tree species chosen
have been inappropriate to the site’s environmental conditions.
411.
Commemorative planting may become a focal point in a space.
Policies
under
412.
Sites for a limited amount of additional commemorative tree planting are identified on the
plan labelled
Figure 4 - Potential sites for sculpture/incidents and commemorative trees
- attached to this document.
413.
Government House shal approve the gifting of trees; however, dignitaries shal be
discouraged from gifting as the grounds are wel planted.
414.
The Government House Buildings and Grounds Advisory group assisted by grounds staff
and specialist experts shall approve any additional commemorative tree planting.
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Sculpture and interventions
431.
Sculpture or interventions shal take advantage of sunlight and shadows. Interventions
shal not overpower a space. No sculpture or intervention shal be placed on the South
Key elements
or North lawn or on The Terrace. Act
423.
Sculpture or an intervention (structure in the garden such as a gate, wall, pathway or
bridge, of artistic merit) acts as a focal point in a design as it draws they eye. Sculpture
Infrastructure
and interventions provide an insight into a particular generation through the style of the
design. Sculpture and interventions have an impact on the physical landscape of the
Position
area. The effects created by sculpture and interventions are influenced by placement,
sunlight and shadow pat erns and lighting.
432.
The infrastructure reflects the age and period in which it was constructed. Some of it is
424.
A single sculpture is located on top of a slope on the eastern side of the Carriageway
of historic significance. The grounds are crisscrossed by a number of roads, footpaths,
Drive opposite the North Lawn and three figures are located in the planting to the east of
and steps; some of which .are now obsolete. Walls of varying age and historic
the reflecting pool on the edge of the South Lawn. The existing sculpture beside the
significance are also located throughout the grounds. The entry gates and walls,
carriageway to the north of the house marks the right honourable Sir Michael Hardie Boys
incidental seating and lighting are also located throughout the grounds. The current
time in office. The placement of both sculptures is effective.
circulation system is primarily surfaced in asphalt and has little legibility or hierarchy.
Some of it wil require renovation or replacement over time and it must be planned if it is
to be appropriate to the site
Information
Policies
Policies
425.
Sculpture and interventions shall be used sparingly, and their location shal be discrete
426.
Sculpture may be donated by retiring Governor Generals.
433.
Obsolete garden infrastructure shal be removed
427.
Sites for a limited amount of sculpture or interventions are identified on the plan labelled
434.
New garden infrastructure – walls, paths, steps, seating and lighting shal be specifically
Figure 4 - Potential sites for sculpture/incidents and commemorative trees - attached to
designed for the site.
this document.
435.
New and replacement garden infrastructure shall contribute to garden legibility and
428.
Sculpture or interventions shal be appropriate to the site, shal not compromise the
memorability.
integrity of the landscape and shal not compromise the historic fabric of the grounds or
436.
New and replacement garden infrastructure shal not adversely affect the historic
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reduce their integrity.
intention or the heritage fabric of the site of the site
429.
A Design Commit ee comprising the Government House Buildings and Grounds Advisory
437.
New garden infrastructure shal be regarded as a potential intervention with individual
group, assisted by grounds staff and specialist experts including the garden manager, an
artistic merit and should conform to a high standard of design
art consultant expert in sculpture and a heritage landscape architect familiar with the
438.
Over time the circulation system may need upgrading. A logical, legible and coherent
the
heritage sites in the grounds, must approve all new sculpture or interventions.
hierarchy of road and footpath design, width and surfacing shal be developed. Materials
430.
Sculpture shall be sited so it becomes a focal point in the space.
used shal reflect and complement the existing and new paving and roading materials
already used around the house.
under
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FIGURES
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APPENDICIES
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APPENDIX 1
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Excerpt from the ‘Conservation Plan – Government House Grounds’ prepared by Louise Beaumont, heritage landscape architect
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grounds should take account of historic and commemorative plantings, identified historic site fabric,
Section 8.1 General Policies
significant views and other identified character defining features and qualities of the place.
General Policy 1: ICOMOS
1982
Al work carried out should be in accordance with the ‘ICOMOS New Zealand Charter for the
Where remedial work is required, aim to repair rather than replace historic material. Original materials
Conservation of Places of Cultural Heritage Value’.
should be respected. In carrying out repairs, materials matching the original should be generally used
where they are available.
This charter is internationally recognised and adopted by all major conservation agencies and
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stakeholders including the New Zealand Historic Places Trust, the Department of Conservation and
(i )
No new element or work should be permitted which is inconsistent with the objectives and
a number of territorial authorities.
policies set out in this Conservation Plan.
The charter identifies and defines eight conservation processes as being:
Protecting the identified heritage fabric and character defining qualities of the Government House
1. Non-intervention
grounds is imperative to ensure that heritage values are not diminished over time.
2. Maintenance
3. Stabilization
4. Repair
General Policy 4: Use
5.
Restoration
6.
Reconstruction
(i)
The use of the Government House grounds should be consistent with its original intended
7. Adaptation
purpose and current use and should not be destructive of heritage values nor should it place
8.
Interpretation
built and natural features at risk.
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One or a combination of the above processes may be appropriate to affect the optimum level of
The original purpose of the Government House grounds was to provide:
conservation.
•
an appropriate ornamental setting for the building which reflected a designed refinement
appropriate to the grounds of a Vice- Regal premises
•
a landscape which could accommodate a varied range of Vice- Regal functions as well as
General Policy 2: Required skil s and work standards
meet the personal and family needs of the Governor General and their household
(i)
People with the appropriate skil levels should be involved in all aspects of work in the
These functions and standard of design are intimately connected with the heritage values of the place
Government House grounds.
and its listed building and structures. Maintaining the historic and existing use of the grounds is the
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best means of retaining these heritage values.
In the case of the Government House trees a qualified arborist should provide advice on and guide
all work associated with trees. Appropriately qualified / supervised horticulturalists should be involved
(i )
The impact of public use on the grounds should be carefully monitored and action taken to
in garden maintenance and propagation.
manage its use if it is shown that overuse or particular forms of usage are causing damage
the
to the heritage fabric.
(i )
Al work should conform to recognised standards of practice, knowledge and safety.
Sustaining and respecting the value of an historic environment requires that it is used and managed
In the case of necessary arboricultural work this should conform to the New Zealand Arboricultural
in ways that wil wherever possible ensure that its significance can be appreciated for generations to
Association standards as outlined in their Best Practice Guidelines.1
come.
(i)
The conservation of spaces and site fabric should be determined by their assessed
under
General Policy 3: Ground works
significance value.
(i)
Any new ground work carried out within the Government House grounds should not
diminish identified heritage values.
General Policy 5: Respect for existing evidence
The airing court, asylum walls, drainage fabric, carriage drive and gates and early and
Conservation treatment, including non-intervention, as well as any other works carried out within the
commemorative tree plantings are to be regarded as significant cultural objects. Any necessary
conservation / arboricultural work in respect of these, and to the Government House grounds as a
1 Working document as at December 2011
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whole, should be undertaken to ensure the minimum intervention, yet as much as is needed to ensure
commemorative trees these should be submitted for registration on the Royal New Zealand
their future retention.
Institute of Horticulture (RNZIH) Notable Tree Trust Database.
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In general, the combination of designed setting; significant site fabric and historic plantings are of
(i i) The 1981 Category l ranking of the asylum airing court and walls should be considered for
considerable to exceptional significance in that they make a critical contribution to the overal
review by NZHPT in light of their assessed heritage value and rarity in New Zealand.
significance of Government House. The retention of these items is extremely important.
Fabric or features that are of some significance such as the ornamental jardinières should be retained
As part of the Policy for Government Departments' Management of Historic Heritage 2004
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where practical and possible.
Government departments are encouraged to support initiatives to recognise publicly the heritage
values of historic heritage they manage, for example, registration under the Historic Places Act 1993
and listing in district plans.
General Policy 6: Plantings
(i)
Those plantings, which have historic, commemorative and aesthetic values, should be
General Policy 8: Archaeological features
maintained on the site for as long as practicable.
It is however acknowledged that in some
instances trees in the immediate vicinity of the House may need to be removed and replaced
No modification of ground surfaces or gardened areas shal take place without an
prior to their safe life expectancy if they no longer effectively contribute to the Government
archaeological authority from the Historic Places Trust.
House agreed landscape standard.
As the grounds are known to have been occupied pre-1900 the place fulfil s the definition of an
Eighteen135 trees within the grounds have been identified as having a particular commemorative or
archaeological site. This includes all elements within the original reserve boundaries of the Mt View
memorial significance. The Phoenix Palms at the main entrance gates are also early plantings and
Asylum as recorded in historic plans (as documented in Tronson's Map of Wellington and Suburbs
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are an important contributing element in the landmark quality of this part of the grounds. Al identified
1887136 and Thomas Ward's 1891 Survey-Map Sheets, 75,76,79 & 80137).
trees should be maintained for as long as is feasible and used as source material for propagation to
Under the terms of the Historic Places Act 1993 it is an offence to modify, damage or destroy an
ensure that their genetic material is retained on site. (Refer Section 4.3.1 Planted site fabric: trees,
archaeological site without authority from the Historic Places Trust. Therefore, no work can take place
for the list of known commemorative plantings).
within the grounds that wil affect either the planted site fabric or the ground surface, without an
authority being granted. This wil include any work that modifies the ground surfaces or the garden
(i )
Pine trees have had an association with the site since its original development in 1873 and
areas.
are a character-defining feature of the grounds and the wider contextual landscape. Their
ongoing use as shelterbelt and slope plantings should be continued as proposed in 1996
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Grounds Report.
General Policy 9: Records
Original plant fabric and the associational qualities that the grounds have acquired over time are
(i)
Records of Government House grounds should be kept in an appropriate archive(s).
character-defining features. It is important to ensure that identified distinctive character and landscape
the
quality is respected.
Al conservation works, and the introduction of new elements should be documented for future
reference. This includes any cleaning or repairs to any built fabric e.g. airing court and other brick
walls, carriage drive and gates, dish drains etc., the removal of any significant vegetation and the
General Policy 7: Recognition
introduction of new plantings or other landscape elements. Ensure ‘before’ and ‘after’ photographs
are taken and suitably captioned in line with accepted conservation practice.
(i)
Every effort should be made to have all commemorative trees within the grounds listed by
If possible, records should be kept in two locations so that in the event of major loss and destruction
Wellington City Council in the Wellington City District Plan Schedule of Heritage and Notable
there are writ en and photographic records to work from.
under
Trees. In addition, the two phoenix palms on the carriage drive and the upper drive
pohutukawa group should be considered for listing by Council along with any other significant
(i )
The place should be photographically documented on a seven yearly basis corresponding
or rare tree species, which may be subsequently identified.
with the conservation plan review and photographs lodged in secure archives. This should
commence prior to any necessary vegetation removal which may be required as part of the
(i ) As an additional level of recognition of the significance of the Government House
Government House conservation works. Should any landscape or built structures associated
135
As at January 2009
137
Wellington City Council Archives,
136
IA36. 130, ANZ
http://www.wellington.govt.nz/services/archives/historicmaps/maps.html
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with the grounds e.g. glasshouses, boiler room, sheds etc. be removed from the site they
ensure that all bulbs and other dormant perennials are identified, recorded and their heritage
should be photographical y documented both internal y and external y in line with accepted
significance assessed. Should any of this plant fabric have an established heritage value an
conservation practice.
appropriate propagation programme such as seed collection, bulb harvesting, genetic stock
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cuttings etc., should be initiated to ensure its protection and ongoing association with the
(i i)
Al asylum walls should be documented with full measured drawings prepared. It is noted
grounds.
that NZHPT staff completed a photographic report in 1995 documenting the graffiti on these
walls138 however it is recommended that an ongoing record be incorporated into the 5 to 10
Evidential value, historical values and some aesthetic values, especially artistic ones are dependent
Act
yearly grounds photographic review.
upon a place retaining (to varying degrees) the actual fabric that has been handed down from the
past. This includes planted heritage fabric; hard landscape elements as well as the experiential
Recording and documenting the landscape over time is an important ongoing resource for future
qualities designed into the landscape. For this reason, it is important that all heritage fabric is
conservation and management planning. It is particularly important where significant plant material is
identified, documented and strategies formulated to ensure its ongoing association with the place.
reaching senescence.
Recommendation: Research
(iv)
A detailed plan of the grounds should be drawn up and the location of all commemorative,
memorial and donated trees and other historic plantings clearly identified. This document
It is recommended that further historical research be carried out to determine the age of the
should be regularly updated when new commemorative or memorial or other significant
asylum airing court. Names and dates appear on this wall, which could be traced, to either
plantings are made, other historic plantings come to light or commemorative trees die.
prison inmate records or asylum patient records.
These are significant and character defining elements within the grounds and their identification,
This would contribute to an improved knowledge of the early history and development of the grounds.
documentation and planned management are critical in ensuring their longest possible association
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with the place.
8.2 Intervention Policies
General Policy 10: Review
Intervention Policy 1: Non-Intervention
This Landscape Conservation Report should be reviewed on a seven-yearly basis by an
appropriately qualified heritage expert. The timing of this review should be aligned with the
Non-intervention is an appropriate course of action for some of the non-vegetative site fabric
review of the Building Conservation Plan.
e.g. carriage drive drains which are not in need of conservation. Generally, however,
intervention wil be required in the grounds as planted site fabric reaches over-maturity or
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It is generally accepted that Conservation Plans should be reviewed on a five to ten yearly basis to
becomes a potential health and safety risk. (As outlined as Maintenance, Stabilization,
monitor the ongoing effectiveness of policy. As further information comes to light, particularly as a
Repair, Restoration, Reconstruction, Removal and Adaptation below).
result of any archaeological investigation of the site it is recommended that this plan be reviewed and
updated where necessary.
the
Intervention Policy 2: Maintenance
General Policy 11: Further Research
(i)
A maintenance plan should be prepared and adopted for the Government House grounds.
This should include guidelines to ensure that the character and integrity of the remaining
(i)
Further research should be undertaken to identify all /any other commemorative and
plant palette, landscape fabric and qualities are protected and maintained according to
memorial trees in the grounds.
general and intervention conservation policies as detailed.
under
This wil assist in their conservation through time. Commemorative plantings have a strong
Regular maintenance of the grounds is one of the most effective conservation processes for the
association with the site but also have significance for others who identify with the site or have links
landscape. A planned programme of systematic maintenance for the grounds and all site fabric
to it such as the Heads of State and overseas dignitaries who planted these. Visitor’s books for
should be prepared and adopted. This should be reviewed at least 5 yearly.
Government House (held by Archives New Zealand) would be an initial starting point.
(i )
Ongoing seasonal recording of the Government House grounds should be undertaken to
(i )
A planned programmed of regular site review should be prepared for the Government House
138
McLean, G & Orsman, C. (1995)
Government House Grounds Brick Wall and graffiti, NZHTP
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grounds. This should include regular systematic tree hazard evaluation surveys of protected
prepared by NZHPT in 1995.
and other significant trees and should be carried out by a suitably qualified arborist using the
New Zealand Arboricultural Standards.
Extant asylum period fabric has high heritage significance, reflects a high degree of authenticity and
1982
is a character-defining feature of the Government House grounds. It is essential that this is respected,
Regular monitoring of the physical condition of the Government House grounds is essential in order
protected, fully documented and retained.
to evaluate the effects of daily, seasonal and cyclical maintenance and any major change, and to
ensure that problems which have the potential to result in major harm are identified and managed.
Vegetation tabulation
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This should be reviewed at least 5 yearly.
(i i)
Stabilization works, in the case of vegetation, includes necessary limb bracing works or
propping and should be carried out using accepted arboricultural practices where it is
In addition, regular arboricultural assessments should be undertaken to identify the structural
deemed necessary and appropriate.
soundness of all trees and identify any necessary structural bracing, potential limb failure etc. to
ensure the health and retention of historic and commemorative plantings for as long as practicable.
Current accepted practice standards should be employed in line with the New Zealand Arboricultural
As a minimum, trees should be inspected every five years. Inspections should occur both with leaves
Association Best Practice Guidelines. Should propping be considered tree props should be in keeping
off and leaves on. Additional inspections should be conducted after major weather occurrences.
with the character of the tree and the site.
(i i)
Sensitive maintenance of the garden is essential to ensure the stability of garden fabric
including the garden's archeology, which is yet to be fully recorded.
Intervention Policy 4: Repair and plant rejuvenation
The use of ride on lawn mowers should be carefully monitored to ensure there is no damage to root
(i)
Any required repairs/remedial work should be carried out as soon as possible.
buttress and consequent threat to tree health. Similarly, if weed trimmers are used in any parts of the
Information
garden care must be taken to avoid injury to plant material. Practices such as stump grinding and the
In the case of non-vegetative site fabric, where practical techniques used for repair should be founded
use of tree spades for planting can be an invasive procedure, which can cause irreversible damage to
in traditional technologies. Where modern technologies are employed, every ef ort should be made
important archaeological information. Wherever possible, or where archaeological fabric is suspected
for them to be concealed.
in and around a root zone every effort should be made to use alternative field techniques.
(i )
Wherever possible significant vegetation e.g. historic and commemorative trees should not
be replaced or destroyed but rejuvenated using appropriate horticultural practices e.g. pruned
Intervention Policy 3: Stabilization and arrest of deterioration
back hard etc.
Official
Structural Engineer Review
Evidential value, historical values and some aesthetic values, especially artistic ones are dependent
(i) The stability and condition of historic landscape fabric should be reviewed by a specialist heritage
upon a place retaining (to varying degrees) the actual fabric that has been handed down from the past.
structural engineering professional. This is specifically:
Intervention Policy 5: Removal
the
•
Al asylum period brick walls
•
The reservoirs
(i)
Removal of fixed-feature landscape structures should only occur following a full investigation
•
Dufferin St brick columns and brick walls
of their heritage significance and determination of their heritage value by Government House.
Any necessary structural strengthening of any asylum walls should not compromise their heritage
The evidence of time and the contribution of all periods should be respected in conservation. Wherever
fabric. Should it be necessary to penetrate the bricks to ensure the long-term structural soundness
possible the retention of buildings associated with the place is encouraged.
of the wall this must not negatively impact or obscure the graffiti in any way.
under
Specialist Brick Conservator
Recommendation: Removal
(i )
The airing court entrance wall needs professional conservation treatment and should be
(i)
It is recommended that decisions around tree removal or major tree surgery should take
reviewed by a specialist in the treatment of clay bricks.
established wildlife and organism associations into consideration. This should be balanced
Alternative options for securing espalier wires should be formulated which do not
with public safety and aesthetic considerations.
compromise the walls either structurally or aesthetical y. Prior to any conservation works
measured drawings should be made of the wall. It is noted that a photographic record was
Old, decaying and even dead trees are a biotic cultural resource and provide important habitats for
wildlife and other organisms, fungi, lichens, bats, invertebrates etc. While necessary health and safety
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considerations and grounds appearance issues wil take precedence, the value of the Government
House grounds for its role in maintaining biodiversity and providing habitats should not be overlooked.
It is important to ensure that no existing heritage values are diminished through the introduction of
Large dead veteran trees not only offer visual interest but also have wildlife value for some decades.
inappropriate species. Additionally, any new memorial or commemorative plantings
should reflect the
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Other aging trees accommodate a range of species in holes, cracks, hol ows, rots, snags and dead
established landscape setting, character and quality.
and broken branches etc. and can harbour rare and endangered species. Specialist advice is
recommended if there is any evidence of the above.
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Intervention Policy 7: Interpretation
Intervention Policy 6: Adaptation and new works
(i)
Interpretation of the Government House grounds should be designed to maximise the
quality of visitor understanding, enjoyment and support, while at the same time not
(i)
Adaptations, new additions and adjacent or related new construction works should be
detracting from the heritage values of the place itself.
undertaken in such a manner that, if removed in the future, the essential form and integrity of
the historic site / element would be unimpaired.
It is understood that a Visitor's Centre is planned as a cultural tourism facility “to enhance public
knowledge of the history and heritage of Government House, and of the role of the Governor-
(i )
Any new work or adaptation to existing site fabric should be differentiated from the old. The
General”.
degree of distinction that is appropriate must take into account the aesthetic values of the site
and consideration should be given to materials compatible historic fabric, features, size, scale
and proportion, profile and massing to protect the integrity of the grounds
Recommendation: Interpretation
(i i)
Any changes to the setting, including the introduction of elements that create a false sense of
(i)
Should the Visitor's Centre be realized it is recommended that the full biography of the
Information
history or historical development, such as adding conjectural features or elements from other
Government House grounds (which is not limited to the post 1910 occupation of the site by
historic properties is to be avoided.
New Zealand's Governors and Governors General) is referenced.
(iv)
The designed experiential qualities of the landscape should be respected when any
By providing interpretation which canvases all of the history of the grounds and includes all
adaptation or new work is planned. This specifical y includes;
of the heritage values of the landscape, as identified in this Landscape Conservation Plan,
•
the designed formality of the entrance experience (although it is noted that this is has
there is a greater opportunity to foster public interest and appreciation of the total historic
been compromised through the years by vehicle traffic to Wellington College)
environment.
•
the designed experience of the carriage drive and the lengthy progression through the
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site
Referencing the full site history would include aspects of its pre-European history as well as its history
•
the sense of enclosure provided by the pine plantation backdrop and other mature
as the designed setting of Mt View Asylum. This is considered to be warranted as the significance of
vegetation
some heritage fabric is not always easy to understand and interpretation is a way of revealing and
•
the designed contrast between open expansive ceremonial lawns and the engaging
conveying an item's value beyond its utilitarian or aesthetic functions.
the
garden detail of the border gardens
•
designed congruity between planted areas, open spaces and Government House
which contributed to an overall sense of formality and status
•
a ratio of grounds to built structures that reinforces the functional role of the grounds
•
protection of significant internal and external views as identified
It is important that identified character defining qualities of the Government House grounds are
under
respected. Any planned adaptations or new works must not diminish the heritage values and cultural
messages of the place.
Recommendation: New commemorative plantings
The implementation of a policy to guide decisions around the gifting and/or selection of
commemorative and memorial trees is recommended. A list of appropriate tree species should
be drawn up for this purpose based on current grounds policy guidelines.
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Act
APPENDIX 2
GARDEN DESIGN PRINCIPALS
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Introduction
1.
Garden design evolves in two ways; the first of which is the practical response to the functional
11.
Composition - The elements of any composition in the garden are based on 4 key elements
1982
requirements of the user and the underlying environmental conditions. The second is a
– mass, form and line, texture and colour. These are the characteristics inherent in nature, -
modification of that functional response into good design through the conscious application of
the shape, structure, surface and colour of plants and their flowers.
the principals of design.
12.
Mass is the degree of openness or solidity of the plant. It is not related to size but rather to
2.
Good planting design utilises a basic set of principles. The principals of design are unity,
the density of the plant. The bigger the mass of the tree, the heavier the effect it creates. A
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balance, proportion and scale, simplicity, accent and climax, repetition, rhythm and sequence,
dense solid tree such as a karaka is more dominant that a similarly sized kowhai.
all of which are clearly interrelated, overlapping and integrated with each other.
13.
Form is the three-dimensional shape or line of the plant. Most plants are either conical, oval,
3.
However, it is the individual taste of the client or the designer, which wil influence whether
round or horizontal. Plant material has natural form and line such as the bil owy tufting of
the garden is Victorian, Art deco, modernist etc.
wil ows along a riverbank or the vigorous vertical emphasis of a line Lombardy poplars.
4.
Garden design utilises elements such as underlying landform and the inherent characteristics
14.
Texture is derived from the size of the leaves and the way they hang on the branch. Plants
of the site such as shelter, views, natural water etc. plus infrastructure materials such as plant
with large leaves create a coarser more dominant texture and advance in a design whilst
material, paving, walls, fencing, pergolas etc. The infrastructure materials should respond to
smaller leaved plants result in finer texture, which is recessive. Strong big leaves should be
and or reflect the underlying site characteristics, if an effective composition is to be achieved.
used sparingly or as focal points. Open branched trees look good in the foreground, where
5.
Unity is the organisation, placing and fitting together of various elements of a garden design,
they can be used to frame views. Heavy dense trees look best as background. Plants with
so that a harmonious whole is created. Unity is based on the rhythm of the underlying
strong texture should be used sparingly particularly when used with plants with predominantly
landform, the domination of one type of vegetation and the fact that human use and buildings
smaller leaves. The use of plants with a similar texture creates unity.
are in sympathy with their surroundings
15.
Colour is also important, and its basic purpose is to create focus, to act as camouflage or to
6.
Unity can be achieved by limiting the variety of materials used and by having the strength of
create an atmosphere. Its effects are variable and dependant on surrounding colours. The
Information
a single purpose – selecting forms and materials, which are strong enough to express one
dominating colour in the garden is the green of grass and trees and all other plant colours and
overruling idea. The result is style.
tones should be related to it. The basis for all planting should therefore, be green – a subdued
7.
Balance is the inherent feeling of equilibrium or stability that is mentally important in a design.
setting for showing off the finery of arriving guests or the drama of the approach to house.
The human mind is attracted to balanced features and they hold attention. There are two types
16.
Tone and colour unify landscapes just as they do paintings. Planting may be all one colour to
of balance, the first of which is symmetrical balance where the same theme is repeated either
create dramatic effects as in large patches of daffodils or massed azaleas under trees.
side of a main axis. The second is asymmetrical balance where precise balance is created in
17.
The use of contrasting colour intensifies the effect, the texture of the surface or background.
the mind, where the weight on one side equals the other mentally. This may be achieved by
18.
The smaller the leaves are and the smoother the surface is, the greater its reflective qualities
changing the form, line texture and colour of the plants.
are. For example, a dark green dense fine leafed background wil intensify the colour of
8.
Proportion and scale - Proportion is the relative size of the dif erent parts of the garden and
flowering plants in front of it. Obvious variation in emphasis can be created by using variations
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their relationship to each other.
Scale is their relationship to the scale of the human beings
in the textural qualities of plants of the surface affects design.
using the garden.
Our requirements dictate the basic scale of any space, which in turn dictates
19.
Distance and the time of day also effect colour. The further the plant is way the less value the
proportion of the space. 1 or 2 people might use the home garden, while a crowd might use
colour has.
the public park. A common fault is to design too small, to underestimate human size and to
20.
Colours can be divided into warm colours, which advance - red / orange and yellow, or cold
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cram too much in. Proportion and scale are themselves attributes of unity and without them
colours, which recede – blue and violet. Green is half way between yellow and blue and is
there can be no harmony in the design
therefore neutral. Advancing colours look larger and can make a space look smaller or draw
9.
Simplicity, accent and climax - Simplicity is the opposite of complexity but avoiding of it can
unwanted attention. Cooler colours work in the opposite way. Bright colours and should be
lead to a lack of unity. Accents are the interest points in the garden and repetition of them can
used sparingly to be harmonious with plants of weaker colour. Blues and greys add to
lead to climax. Climax is the deliberate creation of increasing interest to a maximum level of
distance. Strong hot colours foreshorten distance. Golden or glaucous varieties can destroy
interest at the end - such as the Taj Mahal.
composition by breaking what may be a coherent whole into unrelated fragments.
10.
Repetition, rhythm and sequence - Repetition is repeating a similar theme but not
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necessarily with regular emphasis. The repetition of plant materials, hard materials or shapes
The principles of composition
such as using a distinctive modular paving or furniture design wil result in unity.
Rhythm is a
regularly introduced element in a garden such a line of upright cypress, rolling hil s or a
21.
The fundamental pattern or composition of landscapes and gardens results from the
modular design. Sequence uses the same methods of repetition and rhythm but introduces
distribution and proportion of open space and solid mass. The solids divide the land into
variation. E.g. An avenue of silver birch, then limes, then horse chestnut changing from a fine
spaces or enclosures giving a pat ern of closed and open, of in and out, of dark and light. The
leaf, loosely structured plant through a mid-sized, moderately well-structured tree with
solids may consist of hil s, trees or other strong plant growth or architecture. To be effective
medium sized leaves to a big tree with a strong form and big leaves increasing the feeling of
spatial division must be above eye level. The spaces may consist of open ground or water.
strength and advancement.
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22.
The structural role of the plant is important, just as the walls of the house create the rooms.
The principals of planting composition mean that how the plant fits into the composition is
more important than its decorative qualities / flower colour. Physically the function of planting
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is to give shade and shelter: visual y it determines the proportion and form of the garden, the
contrast between open and closed and the division of space. It provides texture, framing,
background, tone and sculptural form.
23.
The visual characteristics of the plants must be considered and arranged in some sort of
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order. The principals of composition apply to all sizes of plants. The composition may either
be the classic combination of upright, recumbent and prostrate forms (oval, round and flat) or
the more modernist form of a simpler contrast between vertical and horizontal or the static
and dynamic.
24.
If the composition is to be classic, there should be a tree layer, a shrub layer and the ground
layer. If it is modernist it should be simple with one or more layers massed together.
25.
The type of material worked with must respond to the environmental characteristics of the site
e.g. a hot dry bank. Which plants are chosen and how they are put together is dependent on
the designer’s taste. However, the principals of composition remain the same.
26.
Overall one or more elements need to be emphasised to obtain a unifying key – e.g. use one
type of tree as a dominant such as the pohutukawa or one type of shrub species such as the
hydrangea throughout.
27.
Each individual composition in the garden should also be arranged according to the principals
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of rhythm balance and emphasis.
28.
In composition
rhythm is created by repeating physical elements such as the shape of a tree
or shrub or a particular species of plant.
Balance is achieved by centering the design, - finding
the point where the eye returns to rest so that all the parts fit in around it.
Emphasis is the
strong point in the design, the spot that relieves the boredom - where the eye is ultimately led
to – the feature.
29.
A mass of introduced colour, which ignores the natural sources of the atmosphere of the place
such as bright orange flowers in a bush setting, is an example of this.
30.
The various parts of the garden should link together so the design has a basic form and
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structure, which is both functionally and visually appropriate.
31.
Trees create stature, scale and framing. The shrub layer creates human scale, spatial division
and enclosure at a lower level. The herbaceous and ground cover plants form the ground
pattern and interior decoration.
the
32.
The correct balance between them all gives harmony which is somewhere between monotony
and visual chaos. Gardens are for people to enjoy and everything in them should relate to the
human scale and the scale at which it is to be used. If a single person is to feel at ease in the
garden, the spaces must be small enough to be comfortable and detailed enough to be
interesting without the interest elements overpowering the space. If the spaces are to be used
by many, they should be large enough to accommodate a crowd without detracting from the
crowd.
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33.
Final y, the aspects of visual effect and functional suitability in planting design - use of the
right plant in the right place - cannot be divided. The success of the design wil depend on
finding the right plant for the place, the qualities the appropriate plants possess - their ability
to grow and thrive in a given position, hardiness to the climate, tolerance of sun and shade,
dryness or moisture, acid or alkaline soils - and the role they are to fulfil.
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APPENDIX 3
LIST OF COMMEMORATIVE TREES
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
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Reports
Beaumont, L (2011)
Conservation Plan – Government House Grounds, a report prepared for the
Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. Williams, J (1981)
Landscape proposal for the
Vice Regal grounds Wellington: The Long-term Development Plan
Bannatyne Pryor Associates (1993)
Government House Grounds Management Plan Manual
Grounds Report Government House Garden, Wel ington: Notes from walk and discussion. September
9/10, 1996
Plans
Isthmus Group (2009)
Government House Conservation project – landscape masterplan proposal,
Plan number 02 and 04
Information
Books
Crowe, S. (1958)
Garden design, Hearthside Press Inc, New York
Bell Robinson, F. (1940)
Planting design, The Garrard press, Champaign Il inois
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Contents
Appendices
Page Number
Appendix 1 – Masterplan showing broad layout and zones 1982
Appendix 2 – Garden design principles
Introduction
2
Appendix 3 - Council overlays including scheduled trees
Context
2
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Appendix 4 – Property Titles
Garden description
3
Appendix 5 - Statistics
Objectives
11
Garden management zones
11
General Policies
12
General management principles
12
Recommendations
14
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Other elements
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Views
17
o
Trees and tree work
18
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Tree Planting
20
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Sculpture and interventions
21
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Landscape Development
22
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Turf culture
23
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Weed control
23
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Pest control
23
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Copyright
The copyright of the methodology contained within this document remains the property of Woodhouse Associates, Landscape Architects.
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INTRODUCTION
Information compiled by Anthony Wright, Director of Canterbury Museum, a member of the Government House
Auckland Gardens Advisory Committee since 1980, and formerly Curator of Botany at Auckland War Memorial
1.
This Management Plan for the Government House grounds in Auckland sets policies for the
Museum.
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management of the gardens surrounding the house. The Management Plan period shall be for
five years from official acceptance of this document. The direct actions outlined in the document
CONTEXT
shall be undertaken within the five-year period. At the end of the five-year period the
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Management Plan should be reviewed, and any new development shall be identified and an
7.
Government House Auckland is located in Mount Eden and the house sits almost in the middle
estimate of the costs of that development shall be provided.
of a sloping site that runs southwest to north east off the flank of Maungawhau or Mount Eden.
2.
The site of the present - day Government House, Auckland was first built upon in the 1880s or
The house is a large two story wooden building which was originally designed for family living
1890s. Sir Frank and Lady Mappin bought the property in 1921 and spent the next 45 years
- with servants. A modern pavilion type structure designed by Salmond Read Architecture was
redeveloping the house and grounds. They gave the house and land to the Queen in 1962 for
added on to its western façade in 2004 / 2005 to provide a suitable venue for public use. Staf
use as a Royal or Vice-Regal residence.
quarters and facilities are located behind the pavilion along the western edge of the original
3.
The house is much smaller than Government House in Wellington, having been designed as a
house.
family home. However, it is still used for many official functions, including welcomes for visiting
8.
s6(d)
heads of state, for state lunches and dinners, garden receptions, investitures and award
Visitors arriving at Government House who are attending
ceremonies.
functions in the pavilion or touring the gardens either walk up the driveway off Mountain Road
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4.
The gardens of Government House Auckland are a rare survivor from the era when many large
past the Mappin Lawn or they walk through the gates on Savannah Road where they are
New Zealand city estates had landscaped grounds. Most of these larger gardens have been
directed into the pavilion room at the eastern end of the Governors Lawn. Service suppliers use
subdivided, completely redeveloped, or have become public parks. With an extent of 4.6
the northern entrance off Glenfell Place.
hectares, (12 acres) the Government House Auckland garden is one of the largest example of
9.
s6(d)
a city estate remaining in Auckland. The garden is endorsed as a “Garden of National
Significance” by the New Zealand Gardens Trust (www.gardens.org.nz). It has many trees that
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are amongst the oldest of their kind in the country, and lava outcrops and original native
vegetation that were once a feature of the wider local area have been retained.
10.
Al of the driveways are paved with asphalt, which has also been used to pave the forecourt to
5.
Government House has been a landmark presence in Auckland for almost
100 years. The
the pavilion and a narrow entrance down the south side of the house to the front door.
the
grounds provide an appropriately scaled aesthetic setting for the dwelling and provide a variety
11.
Two small courtyards are located on the north side of the house and both are paved in concrete
of well-designed spaces for the range of private and ceremonial functions held there. The site
pavers.
is an important part of Auckland’s 20th and 21st century ceremonial, public and constitutional
12.
There are two additional houses located in the grounds. A two storied wooden cottage is located
history and its heritage value to the nation is significant.
to the west of the southern entrance off Savannah Road. s6(d)
6.
The grounds also have strong symbolic and commemorative value as a planted record of
The second dwelling is a single story ‘modern’ cottage and it is located
previous owners of the land although the layout of garden beds has been modified over the
on the western side of the Glenfell Place entrance behind a metal paling fence. Maintenance
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years. The grounds contain nationally significant historic exotic vegetation, and the native Rock
of the grounds around the cottages is included but is not covered specifically in this document.
Forest vegetation sequence growing on the lava outcrops on the western and northern
13.
s6(d)
boundaries is very rare and a nationally significant part of the only area of such forest remaining
in Auckland. The remaining exotic vegetation and the Native Rock Forest are distinctive
character-defining elements within the garden.
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14.
Health and safety is of paramount importance and extensive health and safety policies cover
both grounds maintenance and Vice Regal and Public use of the site.
15.
The grounds of Government House are open to the public on request and guided walks around
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the grounds focus on the history of the garden and the historic trees. The walks currently do
not include the Native Rock Forest.
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GARDEN DESCRIPTION
Trees, borders and lawns
16.
The main elements within the garden are the trees, the boundary planting including the Native
Rock Forest and the lawns.
17.
The lawns create the setting for the house. Both are wide, sweeping, slightly sloping informally
shaped spaces and they are framed by trees and dense shrubbery to the south and north. The
dense vegetation surrounding them combines to focus views either out from the house or back
across the lawn to the house from the garden. The small trees, shrubs and ground cover in the
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borders create visual interest and create a human scale. The result is two passive, peaceful
serene spaces.
18.
The Mappin Lawn is a large formal space surrounded by tall vegetation and it is used for official
State welcomes while the Governors Lawn is the space is used for other official entertaining
and ceremonies.
19.
The Mountain Road gates and the driveway reflect the importance of the house. The gates
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are semi permeable and small sections of the garden can be glimpsed through them and the
tall trees along the driveway behind them. The gates create a sense of dignity and reflect the
importance of the residence and the semi permeable screen of tree trunks creates a sense of,
privacy, secrecy, mystery and intrigue at the entry.
the
20.
There are a number of
historic trees on the site and these are dominated by Norfolk Island
Pine
(Araucaria heterophyl a) They are an important historical element in the garden. They
also set the scale of the garden and they contribute to the sense of age and grandeur befit ing
the residence. They help channel views up the drive creating a sense of movement towards
the house and contribute to a sense of impending arrival. The slow reveal of the house itself
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creates a sense of establishment.
Norfolk Island Pines on the Mappin Lawn
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View across Mappin Lawn to Lady Mappin Memorial Garden
Pohutukawa on the Governors Lawn
23.
A rock mound on the south side of the house is of particular importance as it creates a definite
21.
The vegetation around the lawns also conceals views from some points in the garden, exposing
physical separation between the eastern and western sections of the garden and it is an
them gradually, which in turn invites the visitor to explore. The unencumbered nature of the lawns
Official important division between the Mappin and Governors Lawns. The open space of the Mappin
reveals the extent of the house, but it is the substantial tree and shrub borders around the house
lawn is slowly left behind as the driveway slowly curves away from the rock garden and the
and the tall trees either side of the house on rocky outcrops to the north and south of the house
stepped entry to the house around the rock mound to the south. The driveway is squeezed
that integrate it into its setting.
the
between rocks and dense tall trees and shrubs before abruptly arriving at the eastern edges of
22.
The boundary borders and the border at the western edge of the both the Mappin Lawn
the Governors Lawn to the west of the house.
and the Governors lawn are all areas of densely planted mixed exotic and native tall trees,
24.
Spectacular pohutukawa cover the rock mound and spread over the driveway and rocky soil
shrubs and ground cover. They provide a back ground to the lawns, define the edges of the
beneath the trees is under-planted with a variety of exotic and native ground covers. The
property, screen it from adjacent landowners and the public and help create a setting for the
planting reinforces the sense of enclosure and introduces a sense of mystery and movement
house. The planting provides some seasonal interest with flower colour and foliage contrast. The
by confining the view, before suddenly opening it up again. The space acts as a transition
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key element in the borders is the density and scale of the vegetation. Because all of the borders
between the Mappin Lawn area and the Governors Lawn by focusing attention away from the
are reasonably distant from the house and they do not draw the eye, the more relaxed style of
rock garden and the house and back to the road.
planting and maintenance regime present is appropriate.
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Rock mound vegetation beside the driveway
View across Mappin Lawn to Rock Forest on Northern boundary
25.
The rock forest area extends along the western boundary at the base of Maungawhau and it
also extends from the Glenfell Place service entry east towards the Mountain Road boundary
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and partially along that boundary.
26.
The rock forest is predominantly native, and it forms a dense impenetrable edge and a strong
visual backdrop along both the western and northern boundaries. It helps create the setting in
the
which the house sits. The rock forest is recognised as being of ecological significance, and it is
an appropriate cover for the rocky habitat that remains along both boundaries.
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Amenity gardens
planting has seen the planting being changed to a simpler concept where two or three species
including the spiky ‘Astelia’ and the scrambling or climbing rata (Metrosideros carmine) have
27.
Exploration of the garden reveals some small and detailed amenity gardens including the Lady
been carefully located on the upper slope of the rock garden to create a simple composition. At
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Mappin Memorial Garden, the rock garden, a perennial border and three amenity borders on
lower levels the planting continues either side of an ephemeral waterway constructed amongst
the Governors Lawn. These gardens provide detailed interest and respite from the big scale of
rock and it is much more detailed, utilising traditional rock garden species, but again spikey
the lawns and surrounding tall trees.
plants have been allowed to dominate to good effect.
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Lady Mappin Memorial Garden
The rock garden
28.
The Lady Mappin Memorial Garden is a tiny, discrete, private refuge. The combination of the
30.
The Viewing Lawn border is located on a small terrace adjacent to and immediately to the
surrounding hedge, detailed perennial and ground cover planting and an old ornamental pool
east of the house. It curves with the façade of the house and is currently about 1.2 to 1.5 metres
creates a peaceful contemplative space which contrasts with the scale of the Mappin Lawn and
wide. It is currently planted in perennials which prefer dry conditions with some exotic tropical
the grandeur of the house. The garden was retained in memory of Sir Frank and Lady Mappin
species in the middle of the border.
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and there is a plaque in it that reads as follows:
31.
The intent of this border was clearly to provide detailed amenity close to the house, however,
‘May this garden created by Sir Frank and Lady Mappin always be protected and cared for in memory of them.
its location on the eastern side of the house results in it being naturally dry. Anecdotal evidence
29.
The rock garden is located on the south east side of the house. It is essentially a jumble of
suggests that the dif iculty in establishing any vegetation in the middle of the border can
large volcanic rocks which tumble down approximately four metres from the house towards the
probably be attributed to its location and the arid nature of the soils; however, it may also
driveway in a south easterly direction. Under Lady Mappin’s care, the rock garden was host to
indicate potential problems with soil quality.
a wide variety of exotic plants, however the intense maintenance requirements of that type of
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32.
The tropical species currently planted in the middle of the border are not congruent with
35.
The eastern border along the driveway is divided into two separate spaces by a rock outcrop.
perennial plants at either end of the border and are not particularly congruent with the style of
The area just inside the gate is dominated by exotic trees and old camellias some of which are
the garden. However, it is clear that the area should be replanted in species able to thrive in
in decline. There are also a variety of invasive weed species on the edges of the rock forest
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the conditions and this may necessitate a change in the type of planting in the border.
vegetation to the east.
33.
This area is also associated with a small lawn area between the border and a low rock wall to
36.
The southern-most section of the entry borders has been recently planted in native shrubs
the east. The view from the terrace and the rooms in the house across this border are important
and ground cover. The vegetation does not reflect the rock forest vegetation it is adjacent too.
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and at present the upper branches of the exotic tree and shrub species in the border at the
western end of the Mappin Lawn intrude into the view from the lower windows in the house.
The view out from the terrace also includes the canopy of the trees and shrubs planted at the
western end of the Mappin Lawn and these are currently infested with the invasive weed
Morning glory.
(Ipomea indica)
34.
The Glenfel Place entrance on the northern side of the house is used as a service entrance
and is relatively utilitarian in nature. One of the residential houses on the property is located to
the west of the entry road and this is separated from the entrance by a high fence covered in a
variety of exotic and native vegetation.
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Glenfell Place entrance – New planting and staff courtyard
37.
There are also three amenity borders and an area of daffodil planting on the Governors lawn.
38.
The border on the north side of the lawn extends through the middle half of the site and is
punctuated at the eastern end by a group of pohutukawa. It is an informal shape and the
planting in it reflects the influence of previous generations. Cherry trees (
Prunus sp.) create a
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small tree layer while massed plantings of evergreen Azaleas (
Azalea indica) and Camellias
(
Camellia japonica and sasanqua) planted under the trees provide the shrub layer and
predominantly exotic species create the ground cover layer. Some of this planting is in decline
and needs to be replaced.
Glenfell Place entrance – New planting
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42.
The Rock Forest Bush is predominantly composed of broadleaf species and the quality of the
‘bush’ is good with a significant understory in the Glenfell Place section,
43.
However, some of the rock forest along the Glenfell Place boundary is also compromised by
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heavy infestations of invasive weed species and in particular the Mediterranean Bay laurel
commonly known as the culinary herb ‘Bay’ (Lauris Nobilis) and Wandering Jew, (Tradescantia
fluminensis) Tree privet,
(Ligustrum lucidum and sinense) woolly nightshade
(Solanum
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mauritianum) and ivy
(Hedera helix) are also visible.
44.
Although the native vegetation provides good habitat for native bird species, its narrow nature
results in both areas being prone to the re-establishment of invasive weed species and care
wil need to be taken to avoid reinfestation.
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Governors Lawn - looking across to border around the tennis court
39.
The second border is located to the south of the centre of the lawn. It sits slightly closer
to the pavilion than the northern border and again it is punctuated at its eastern end by
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pohutukawa. Massed exotic ground cover spreads under the pohutukawa, however the
planting around the swimming pool to the west is exotic with some tropical species. This
planting completely screens the pool, pool fence, the pool house and also any views from the
the
pavilion of the lawn area to the south west. Although the pool planting creates a sense of
mystery by screening the lawn beyond it, there is nothing of particular interest in the screened
area once the visitor arrives.
40.
Two areas of
rock forest on the site have been identified as Significant Ecological Areas (SEA)
Rock falls in the rock forest on the Glenfell Place boundary
in the Auckland Council Unitary Plan – along with all of the pohutukawa on the Governors Lawn
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and the planted native vegetation along the western section of the Glenfell Place boundary.
45.
Credit must also be given to the efforts of the Government House maintenance crew who have
41.
The combined area of original rock forest is small but the vegetation along the
eastern half of
all of the weed species other than the Bay under a reasonable level of control - a state where
the Glenfell Place boundary in particular, is dense and ecologically important. The area on
the incidence of invasive species comprises no more than 5% of the total amount of vegetation
the slopes of Maungawhau at the western end of the Governors Lawn is less dense than the
on the site. They have also made an excellent start on control of the bay.
Glenfell Place section because it has previously had dense infestations of weed species and it
46.
The rock falls in this area are particularly spectacular and are of considerable public interest.
is in a recovery stage.
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47.
Remnants of early retaining walls, buildings and pathways remain in the eastern end of the
house and at the eastern end of the Mappin Lawn where low planting on the top and edges
Glenfell Place rock forest area.
separate the lawn from the area between the driveway and the tennis court area
51.
The formal arrival area is located just to the west of the rock garden and is sandwiched
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between the rock garden and the rock mound. It comprises a small circular turn around area
and a set of concrete steps which lead up to the front door of the house. The turnaround area
is overhung with spectacular native trees and the area has the potential to be an entrance that
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relates to the grandeur of the house. However, the driveway and the formal set down area are
paved in the same asphalt as the driveway and the steps are brushed concrete. The area is not
distinguished from the drive, is utilitarian in nature and does not reflect the purpose of the house.
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Early retaining walls in north east corner of Glenfel Place Rock forest area
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48.
Safe access through the bush and around the rock retaining walls is compromised by the
narrow width of pathways, the lack of any safety railings or handrails adjacent to pathways and
the
steps, rough surfacing of pathways, and excessively high risers and narrow treads on steps’
.
Infrastructure
Formal entry to house
49.
The drive ways are an important part of the arrival experience. They both create a sense of
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movement between the gates and the house / pavilion with the focus on the views across both
52.
The steps beside the rock garden up to the front door and the cramped and narrow pathway
lawns slowly unfolding as the visitor moves towards the house. Glimpses of the lawn under and
located between the plain southern façade of the house and the rock mound to the south of the
through the sweeping Norfolk Island Pine and pohutukawa branches draw the visitor towards
house are also utilitarian and do not reflect the grandeur of the house or the national importance
the Lawns.
of the inhabitants, their visitors and the ceremonies and functions carried out there.
50.
Rock walls are also a defining characteristic of the garden and these are located on the
northern eastern and southern edges of the house, around the rock mound to the south of the
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Savannah Road entry to house
The asphalt forecourt to the pavilion
53.
The asphalt is also used as a hard surfacing in all other areas except the northern service
55.
A recently refurbished
tennis court is located in the north eastern most corner of the grounds
courtyards including the driveway/pathway to the house off Savannah Road, the pathway to the
and there is a small pavilion associated with the court. The exterior of the pavilion is in good
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front door on the south side of the house form the pavilion area and the patio outside the
condition with the roof and walls having been painted in 2017.
pavilion. Again, this use of utilitarian material for paving in these areas detracts from the arrival
56.
A small fenced
swimming pool for the use of the Governor General and staff and a pool shed
experience.
are located on the south side of the Governors Lawn. The pool design and surrounds are
the
54.
The shape of the patio outside the pavilion does not respond to the lines of the pavilion, nor
dated.
does it provide an appropriate usable extension to the pavilion for entertaining.
57.
Two service courtyards and an old washing line area are tucked between the house and
the rock forest to the north. Both the courtyards are bounded by rock walls on their northern
boundaries and both are adjacent to the rock forest vegetation.
58.
The western most courtyard is utilized by staff and it is surrounded by a white painted trellis
under
style fence. It is a sparse and uninteresting space and does not reflect the nature of the rest of
the garden. A pathway up into to a rough grassed area and the site of a previous washing line
within the rock forest exits north from the western most courtyard. The washing line area has a
spectacular view from the south eastern edge but is otherwise infested with long grass and bay
seedlings This area has potential as a lookout area.
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59.
The eastern most courtyard is defined by rock walls and is surrounded by dense native
• s6(d)
vegetation with some exotic vegetation. Another pathway exits into the rock forest from the
north side of the eastern most courtyard.
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60.
Al of the flat area between the walls and the house in the eastern most courtyard is paved but
• To ensure, so far as is reasonable practicable, the health, safety and welfare of the vice
the paved area abutting the wall is irregular and does not reflect the lines of the house. The
regal office, staff and visitors to the property.
result is an ill-defined space. The small pot ed plants used to decorate the space and identify
• To recognise that the garden is rich in cultural and natural heritage and these elements
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the pathway entrance are out of scale with the courtyard and do not add to its ambience. Again,
combine with vegetation and landform to create a distinctive garden landscape that is a
the courtyard does not reflect the style or nature of the rest of the garden.
potentially important visitor attraction both for the tourism industry and for the local
community and businesses and to recognise the potential to increase visitor numbers by
sharing the garden and the stories about the garden.
OBJECTIVES
GARDEN MANAGEMENT ZONES
61.
The objectives of the management plan for the garden are:
• To ensure the garden meets, in perpetuity the requirements of a vice regal residence;
62.
The garden can be divided into 3 distinct zones for management purposes.
(See Figure 1.) The
• To enhance the experience of the Vice Regal inhabitants and their visitors;
zones are based on the management input required:
Information
• To conserve the historic designed intention of the site, as both a Victorian-era landscape
63.
Zone 1 includes;
and subsequently as the ornamental grounds of Auckland’s Vice Regal premises;
a. Public approaches including the gardens around the entry gateway;
• To conserve historic character defining elements including the Mountain Road Street entry
b. The tree and shrub border to the south of the driveway into the site off Mountain Road;
and drive, old and commemorative trees; plant species of horticultural significance and
c. The mixed tree and shrub borders on the northern and western edges of the Mappin Lawn;
remaining above ground constructed artefacts including the historic infrastructure within
d. The rock mound on the south side of the house that divides the Mappin Lawn from the
the rock forest;
Governors Lawn;
Official
• To conserve the dignified character of the Government House grounds as an appropriately
e. The tree and shrub border along the boundary with Eden Gardens on the south side of the
scaled aesthetic setting for the dwelling and the ceremonial functions carried out around
Governors Lawn;
the dwelling shall be preserved and enhanced;
f. The tree and shrub border at the western end of the Governors Lawn;
g. The screen planting on the northern boundary of the Governors Lawn;
the
• To conserve and enhance the ecological integrity of the nationally significant rock forest
h. The gardens around the cottages;
• To recognise that plant material is a living material that wil change over time and that it
64.
Zone 2 includes
may need to be pruned, removed or replaced;
a. The land between the entry roadway and around the tennis court to the east of the Mappin
• To recognise that invasive weed species are a major threat to the fabric of the garden and
Lawn, and the azalea dell;
the rock forest in particular and develop measures to ensure that the grounds are an
b. The Lady Mappin Memorial Garden;
invasive weed free zone;
under
c. The rock garden;
• To recognise that the swimming pool and tennis court are for the private use of the Vice
d. The Viewing lawn border on the eastern side of the house;
regal families and Vice regal guests, Government House staff and the Official Secretary.
e. The Glenfell Place gardens on the north side of the house;
• To identify and record the principle species of historic, scientific and horticultural
f. The Northern courtyards;
significance;
g. The amenity borders in the Governors Lawn including the borders around the swimming
• To develop robust principles around the design and detailing of any replacement or new
pool and along the fence around the northern cottage;
landscape elements within the site, including the installation of artworks;
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Released
65.
Zone 3 includes
73.
Recognise that planting around the lawns emphasises their principal use as outdoor
a. The rock forest area on the slopes of the Maungawhau to the west, above the pathway at
entertainment areas and provides a background for these activities.
the western end of the Governors Lawn
74.
Replacement planting must not draw the eye or detract from the open expanse of lawns used
1982
b. The rock forest along the eastern margins of Glenfell Place boundary and along the
for formal, ceremonial occasions and entertaining activity, but it may provide localized interest.
northern parts of the eastern boundary adjacent to Mountain Road.
75.
Recognise and respond to changes in the way the grounds are used by the Vice Regal families
66.
Identifying these zones in the garden ensures that broad management techniques can be
and the public and adapt them to meet those needs.
Act
targeted to each zone. The zones reflect the usage by the Vice Regal family and visitors and
76.
Recognize that trees may grow too big for a site, may be damaged, may become structurally
they also reflect the completely different types of management required for the different physical
unsound or may die. Al ow for their removal and / or replacement.
and ecological environments within the garden. Zones 1 and 2 require intensive maintenance
77.
Retain the broad
layout of borders around and within the lawns.
to ensure high quality presentation while Zone 3 is reasonably naturalistic, and it should be
78.
Ensure that replacement planting in the Zones 1 and 2 reflects the current layout of plants, the
largely self- maintaining once the weed species are under control.
broad scale historic design intent and the visual, functional and horticultural characteristics of
historic plant species used including their form, line, foliage type, leaf colour and texture as well
as seasonal features such as flower colour and bloom time, fruit and autumn foliage) and that
GENERAL POLICIES
they shall be matched as closely as possible.
(See Appendix 2 – Garden design principles)
67.
The landscape fabric designed into the grounds such as the sweeping lawns either side of the
79.
s6(d)
Information
house; the dense borders of trees, shrubs and groundcover around the edges of the grounds
and the borders, provide a setting for the house and amenity for the inhabitants and visitors
shall be retained.
68.
The symbolic and commemorative value of the grounds as a planted record of previous owners
shall be protected and preserved.
69.
Historic character defining built elements and artefacts including the Mountain Road Street
entry gates and the Savannah Road drive, the rock walls around the house and at the eastern
Official
end of the Mappin Lawn, the rock garden and Lady Mappin Memorial Garden and the natural
80.
Any tree or shrub that is in decline, or has died, I.e. exhibits leaf loss of more than 20% shall
and built infrastructure within the rock forest; shal be protected and preserved - allowing for
be removed and replaced in the first planting season (May to September inclusive) after it is
improvements and changes which are appropriate to the time.
removed.
the
70.
Distinctive character-defining historic vegetation such as the old and commemorative specimen
81.
Vegetation in the amenity borders within the grounds shall be predominantly exotic and
trees, plant species of horticultural significance and the ecologically significant rock forest shall
appropriate to the Victorian origins of the borders.
be protected and preserved.
82.
Replacement plant species must respond to changes in the growing environment created by
71.
The grounds shall be maintained to an agreed high standard that is consistent with good
time, – large trees, shading and climate change.
landscape, horticultural and arboricultural practise.
83.
Native plants may be used in the borders on the east, south and western boundaries of the
under
garden but shall not be al owed to predominate except where they merge with rock forest.
84.
Shrub and groundcover species removed from within the internal Amenity borders on the
Governors Lawn and the Lady Mappin Memorial Garden outside the planting season shall be
replaced within three weeks with perennial species.
GENERAL MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES
85.
Herbaceous material may be used to temporarily fil gaps elsewhere if vegetation has had to
72.
Recognise the significant contribution that planted site fabric makes to visual amenity.
be removed in any of the borders. However no herbaceous perennials shall be used as
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Released
permanent display in the borders around the boundaries of the lawn. No more than 15%
95.
Vegetation that develops poor form, is diseased; fails to thrive; is in decline or dies shall be
herbaceous perennials may be used in any of the internal borders. No annuals are permitted.
removed immediately and replaced in the planting season (May to September inclusive)
86.
The l
ayout of the amenity borders shall be retained and vegetation in the azalea dell, the and
following the removal.
1982
the amenity borders on the northern side of the Governors Lawn shall include a broad planting
96.
Replacement species shall respect the design intent of the garden. However, consideration
composition of canopy trees, a shrub layer and ground cover.
should be given to the effects of climate change on plant health when choosing replacement
87.
Other amenity planting along the rock walls between the drive and the tennis court at the
plant species.
Act
eastern end of the Mappin Lawn in the Lady Mappin Memorial Garden, in the rock garden, the
97.
Plant species chosen must be capable of growing in the environmental conditions, e.g. should
perennial garden, the service courtyard gardens and the garden around the swimming pool
be tolerant of the inherent or constructed soil type including Ph. levels, moisture levels, wind,
may be comprised of layers of low shrubs and groundcovers.
sun or shade.
88.
Small tree, shrub and ground cover species in the amenity borders shall form layers of different
98.
At all times, no more than 5% of any border shall be bare, unless it is being completely
heights with higher plants in the background or middle of the borders and massed ground cover
refurbished.
in the foreground. Ground cover should extend throughout the border; the exception being the
99.
Tree branches shall be kept no less than 4 metres above the centre of the roadway, 2 metres
rock garden.
above the edges of the roadway and pathways and no less than 1.5 m above lawn level.
89.
The form of new planting in all of the borders shall be round, oval or spreading. No new
100.
No perennial or groundcover vegetation shall overhang a lawn edge by more than 50mm. No
columnar plants other than replacement Norfolk Island pine,
(Araucaria) kauri
(Agathis
shrubby vegetation shall overhang garden paths by more than 200mm. Desirable taller trees
australis) or Rewarewa
(Knightia excelsa) shall be planted.
and shrubs shall have a clearance height of 1.8 metres at path and roadway edges and 2
Information
90.
The texture of plants (or foliage size) throughout the garden shall be largely small to medium
metres at path centers. Clearance over the middle of the roadways shall be 4 metres.
sized leaves as big leaved plants draw the eye and might detract from ceremonial functions on
101.
Perennial material shall be lifted every three years and divided and replanted. Fertiliser shall
the lawns. Open loose branch structure, large leaves, shiny leaves, bright green red, yellow or
be added to the garden beds at the time of replanting. Lifted plants shall not be left in the sun,
blue leaf colour also all draw attention and shall be used sparingly. Large leaf ground covers
wind or rain for longer than five minutes without coverage with wet sacking or the equivalent to
may be used to mark corners, to highlight a certain area of the garden or provide limited visual
avoid roots drying out.
contrast at a local level. Large leaved plants should be used sparingly in the rock garden.
102.
Trees and shrubs requiring pruning shall be pruned to form an irregular line on the edges of
Official
91.
Leaf colour on all planting in all of the borders around the edge of the site shall be
borders – not a hedge.
predominantly dark green to act as a foil for more ornamental items in the garden. Leaf colour
103.
Al gardens in Zone 1 shall be mulched with good quality aged fine bark chip. Al gardens in
in the amenity gardens may be dark to mid green. No new planting with yellow or red foliage
Zone 2 shall be mulched with weed free compost. No mulch shall be used in Zone 3 although
the
shall be used anywhere.
forest duff collected from within the rock forest in areas free of bay seedlings may be used as
92.
Grey plants may be used in the rock garden and sparingly elsewhere.
a mulch around new planting in the rock forest area.
93.
Flower colour should be muted with sparing use of red, orange yellow and white as they draw
104.
All lawns shall be maintained as high grade, good quality lawns and edges shall be clipped.
the eye. Some floral display throughout the year is encouraged although not required. Seasonal
105.
No modification of ground surfaces or gardened areas that requires excavation of more than
flower colour may be used in the lower rock garden area, the perennial border and around the
5.00m2, or to a depth of more than 400mm shall take place without authority from the Manager
under
Lady Mappin Memorial Garden. Flower colour in exotic shrub borders is also acceptable. Flower
Services, Government House. A 5.00m2 area allows for the roots of a tree to be dug out. A
colour on the south side of the driveway should be muted.
depth of 400mm allows a hole for a PB 95 to be dug without authority.
94.
Perennial flower colour shall be predominantly green, blue, and red violet, Red, orange, yellow
106.
Utility and service areas shall be fully screened from public areas.
and white should be used sparingly as they contrast with the predominant green of the
107.
The rock forest bush shall be maintained as a healthy, sustainable and resilient example of rock
background vegetation and wil draw the eye.
forest with a dense impenetrable edge along the boundaries. Maintenance shall focus on the
eradication of all existing invasive weed species and exotic species to facilitate natural
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Released
regeneration. Al invasive weed species shall be controlled using methods identified on the
RECOMMENDATIONS
Weed Busters web site. http://www.weedbusters.org.nz/
108.
Any new design and detailing of garden areas within the site must have a high degree of visual
Zone 1
1982
amenity and be ecologically resilient.
Shrub Border on the south side of the drive
109.
Areas, artefacts or plant material requiring restoration, renovation, redevelopment, or
118.
Identify any areas where replacement planting of species such as Norfolk Island Pines,
replacement must be identified and treated appropriately;
pohutukawa and karaka might be planted. Kauri should not be replanted until a cure for kauri
Act
110.
Maintenance must be consistent, appropriate, affordable and to a uniformly high and
die back is established.
sustainable standard.
111.
People with appropriate skil and qualification levels shall be involved with all aspects of the
work in the Government House Grounds.
Shrub border - western end of Mappin Lawn
112.
Site security plans must be developed (and adjusted) with input from the Garden Staff to ensure
119.
Prune or remove and replant any trees which screen views over the Mappin Lawn from the
that the gardens historic integrity is retained.
house.
113.
Any changes to the grounds layout and development to ensure visitor experience is safe and
120.
Remove all invasive weed species in the border.
secure must be undertaken in consultation with a qualified landscape architect specialising in
historic landscapes; Garden staff; the Grounds Advisory Committee and the Manager Services,
Rock mound on the south side of the house
Government House. Garden staff must be familiar with and adhere to the health and safety
121.
Remove all invasive weed species including Ivy.
Information
plans for both their routine maintenance work and the use of the grounds by the Vice Regal
122.
Plant groundcover to provide 95% coverage of all ground within 1metre of the rock wall / road
office and their visitors.
edge. Mass and blend groundcover species into each other to create rhythm.
114.
Garden staff must identify any work place or garden hazards and unsafe practises that occur;
report them immediately in writing to the Manager Services, Government House; fence or rope
Tree and shrub border on the Governors Lawn boundary with Eden Gardens;
them off and identify what the hazard is at its location in writing, and if able, repair the hazard
123.
Remove the clumps of the small stemmed bamboo at the western end of the border as it is
immediately.
potentially an invasive weed species and replace it with native species such as karaka,
Official
115.
Any proposal for increasing the visitor numbers to the Government House garden must
(Corynocaprus laevigata) puriri,
(vitex lucens) tanekaha,
(Phillocladus trichmanoides)
acknowledge the rich cultural and natural heritage of the gardens.
rewarewa,
(Knightia excelsa) titoki,
(Alectryon excelsa) and taraire.
(Beilschmiedia tarairi) The
116.
Any increase in visitor numbers wil necessitate an increase in staff numbers, staff education
remaining canopy trees shall be under planted with species like mapou
, (Myrsine australis) five-
the
and other stakeholder input such as security. Therefore, stake holders wil need to work
finger,
(Pseudopanx lessonii) karamu,
(Coprosma repens) nikau
(Rhopalostylus sapida) and
together in order to balance core aims.
hangi hangi
(Geniostoma) at a density that creates a complete screen.
117.
Guided tours around the garden must be of high quality; educational and appeal to all age
124.
Continue mass planting of ground cover species adjacent to paths and the lawn using species
groups. Therefore, a process for reaching, managing and engaging with visitors successfully
already thriving in the environment
to fully realise the values of the history of the Government House landscape and to help them
125.
Liaise with Eden Gardens to develop a methodology for maintaining the Eden Gardens land on
under
enjoy and learn from the diversity of landscapes and plants around the house, must be
top of the quarry face. This may include installing access, planting and some annual
developed in association with Garden staf .
maintenance. (The security fence is not gated and neither Government House garden
maintenance staf nor Eden gardens staff can access the top of the rock wall to remove weed
species or the long grass that is visible through the fence.)
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Released
Trees and borders at western end of Governors Lawn;
Plant fine leaf groundcover under the azaleas and mulch the whole bed with aged good quality
126.
Retain the tulip tree
(Liriodendron tulipifera) and Atlantic cedar
(Cedrus atlantica) as they are
compost.
(Although each has adversely affected the form of the other, form wil not be regained should
137.
Any proposed change to the layout or character of the lawns, pathways and planted beds in the
1982
one be removed.
tennis court area should be designed by a registered landscape architect experienced in garden
127.
Retain the massed planting in the borders as it is and replace the plants that have declined with
design and the conservation of historic landscapes in consultation with appropriate
the same species. If the species fails to thrive it should be replaced with another similar species.
professionals.
Act
128.
Where, appropriate infil plant under the trees - off the lawn - with native species such as
hangihangi, kawakawa, five finger and ferns to create a dense boundary to the western end of
Lady Mappin Memorial Garden
the lawn and a physical and ecological link through to the rock forest
138.
Ensure that coverage of groundcovers and perennials is at least 95% at all times except during
129.
Continue the invasive weed eradication programme.
the winter months - 1st June to 30 h August inclusive.
130.
Build a new set of steps from the northern end of the pathway back to the lawn to enable visitors
139.
Refurbish - seal and upgrade the surface treatment of the water feature and install an
to complete a circuit through the bush area. The steps should have risers of no more than
automated pump.
150mm and treads of 450 to 480mm and may be constructed from timber or stone endemic to
the area. The steps should have a handrail and should meet NZ safety standards.
Rock garden
140.
Retain the existing style of planting in the rock garden but ensure that the perching lilies
(Astelia
Border and lawn along Glenfell Place boundary;
Sp.) do not become bigger than 1m3 or that the climbing rata dominates. Continue to enhance
Information
131.
Widen the border by at least one metre at the western end and extend it out to eastern most
the planting with species suitable for rock garden environments.
tree. Install new screen planting utilizing the same species found in the rock forest including
141.
Retain maximum exposure of the rock faces as a contrast to small plants – 50/50. Continue
karaka, Nikau, whiteywood
(Melicytus ramiflorus) kawakawa and hangihangi over ferns etc.
planting with cushion plants, bulbs, alpines – suited to Auckland conditions, rock plant species
The composition of the Glenfell Place border shall be retained in native trees, shrub and ground
based on those thriving in similar environments at Eden Gardens and the Auckland Botanic
cover. Extend the planting south along the boundary fence of the cottage to meet the existing
Gardens
hydrangea planting.
142.
Consider the establishment of a spreading umbrel a shaped tree such as the silk tree (
Albizzia
Official
julibrissen) or the Jacaranda (
Jacaranda mimosifolia) close to the top of the step as a foil to the
Border around house adjacent to Glenfel Place:
house and a focal point from the Mappin Lawn and the Terrace.
132.
Plant a loose camellia hedge outside the western fence line of the cot age.
the
133.
Extend mass planting of hydrangeas to meet with the proposed addition to the Glenfell Place
Viewing Lawn border
screen planting as in paragraph 131.
143.
Undertake soil tests in the middle of the perennial border to determine why plants are failing.
134.
Plant a group of small tree species such as a smaller growing
Michelia Sp. or maples
(Acer
144.
Refurbish soils as necessary and retain and replant the border in species capable of
Sp.) over the massed hydrangea.
withstanding drier conditions.
135.
Mass plant ground cover under the hydrangeas and the existing camellias.
145.
Install an automated irrigation system in the border, but do not overwater.
under
ZONE 2
Glenfell Place entrance
Lawns and exotic shrubbery around tennis court
146.
Remove any exotic species in decline directly inside the Glenfell Road gates and replace with
136.
Replace any azaleas that are in decline and infil plant with the same species in bare spots.
ecosourced natives from the rock forest such as karaka, nikau, (
Rhopalostylus sapid) five-
Plant three small trees such as dogwood
(Cornus Sp.) or maples
(Acer Sp.) over the azaleas.
finger,
( Sp.) kawakawa
(Macro piper excelsum) and hangihangi.
(Geniostomum ligustrifolium)
147.
Replace any small shrubs and ground cover that fail to thrive in the existing newly planted
garden with plants that are also ecosourced from the rock forest.
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Released
the pool fence but must not screen the view through to the south west corner of the Governors
Northern courtyards
Lawn. Vegetation on the south and south eastern side of the pool fence may be up to three
148.
Repair the white trellis fence around the western courtyard and paint it dark green or black.
metres high. The pool shed should not be visible from the pavilion.
1982
149.
Install some large planted pots in the western courtyard and climbers on the fence to improve
161.
Border composition should be mixed, although not massed. Small groups of the same species
ambience.
are acceptable and small groups of massed ground covers are also acceptable.
150.
Re-stablish the steps up to the old washing line area and develop a small sitting out area with
162.
Shrub and ground cover species should complement the planting in the northern internal
Act
a seat appropriate to the garden style. Plant around the seat with rock forest species and retain
border, but species should be chosen for their ability to withstand full sun.
a view through to the Mappin Lawn.
163.
Shrubby ground covers should predominate on the northern side of the pool.
151.
Trim back some of the overhanging vegetation on the northern side of the eastern most
164.
Eextend the planting outside the pool fence around to the western side of the pool in beds that
courtyard.
are a minimum of 1.2m wide. Planting in this area should not be tropical.
152.
Redesign paving layout in the eastern most courtyard to create a more inviting space. I.e.
165.
Retain the existing planting on the eastern and southern side of pool. (The pool fence and the
reduce the expanse of the paving and create paving level garden beds adjacent to the rock
pool shed were painted dark green to reduce their visibility in February 2018).
walls and the house.
153.
Either remove completely or replace small coloured planted pots with large grey stone type pots
Daffodil planting at the western end of the lawn
in groups located against the house (in lieu of planting) in groups of a minimum of three – may
166.
Mass plant daffodils in the area adjacent to the Tulip tree and Atlantic cedar. The planting
be different styles but should complement each other. May be planted in colourful shrubs,
should be at least 5 metres wide and approximately 30 metres long. It should be broadly
Information
perennials and annuals.
rectangular in shape but should blend into the pathways at both the northern and southern
ends. After flowering leave the whole daffodil field in long grass until all daffodil leaves have
The amenity shrub border on the north side of the Governors Lawn;
died down them mow as per the rest of the lawn.
154.
Remove both cherry trees and replace with trees with a similar form (the trees have become
too big for the space and one of them is in visible decline)
155.
Replace any azaleas that are in decline with the best suited species (consider introducing other
Zone 3
Official
species such as Vireya rhododendrons,
(Rhododendron vireya) Lily of the valley shrub
(Pieris
Rock forest Bush
Sp.) and the orange jessamine
(Murraya paniculata) etc. if the azaleas continue to decline.
167.
Establish a specific 3-year long programme targeted
at reducing massed invasive weed species
156.
Mass plant new shrub planting in casual groups of 3, 5 or 7.
in the rock forest area such as bay, Wandering Jew and Ivy and replanting the areas in rock
the
157.
Mass plant shrubs so that they cover at least 75% of the ground.
forest species. The outcome of the programme shal be a reduction in the incidence of these
158.
Infil plant all bare ground under the shrub layer with ground cover species so that no more than
species and other invasive weed species such as Ivy privet, woolly nightshade and Flowering
5% of the ground is bare at any time.
Cherry to no more than 1% of the total area of vegetation at the end of the period or a
percentage that is readily managed by the maintenance staff as part of day to day operations
The amenity shrub border on the south side of the Governors Lawn / around the pool
and the successful establishment of a dense new addition to the rock forest.
under
159.
Retain the groundcover planting under the pohutukawa.
168.
The programme shall identify all the weed species occurring in the Rock Forest areas; shall
include a methodology and programme for eradicating each of the weed species; wil illustrate
Planting around the swimming pool
how the areas affected by the invasive weed species will be rehabilitated; shall include a
160.
Infil mass plant where plants have been removed with new low shrub and ground cover using
methodology for eco-sourcing and growing seedlings; and shall include a Plant Schedule, a
species already thriving in the location or a similar species. Manage the height of the vegetation
Planting and Implementation Programme and an ongoing Weed and Pest Control Plan.
to an average of 600mm. 10% of the vegetation on the northern and western sides of the pool
may be the height of the pool fence or 1.1m. Specific individual species (2-3) may extend above
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Released
169.
A plant schedule including a list of the plants required with their botanic and common names;
180.
Timber walkways and decking are not considered to be appropriate for the rock forest although
the number of plants required and their size at the time of planting shall be supplied.
a safety railing may have to be installed.
170.
Annual Monitoring reports for both the Revegetation programme and the Weed and Pest control
1982
programme shall be submitted to the Manager Services, Government House by the 30th
November of each year.
OTHER ELEMENTS
171.
The Monitoring Reports shall include work undertaken in the previous year, an outline of the
Act
s6(d)
Weed Maintenance Programme with chemicals used (- if any) and a breakdown of the Planting
Replacement planting and its success and recommendations for any ongoing replanting,
s6(d)
181.
planting and weed control. The Monitoring Reports shall also include the personnel responsible
for the work and the dates they undertake intensive work in the area.
172.
Plant species used for revegetation must be indigenous, endemic to this particular rock forest
ecosystem and they must be sourced from within the ecosystem.
173.
Planting shall be ex Pb3 minimum (Container size) and specimens shal be located at 1m
182.
centres in random patterns reflecting the natural patterns of the bush. Species may be massed
in small groups of 3, 5 or 7 and ground cover species such as fern shall be located in appropriate
niches once a canopy cover is established.
183.
Information
174.
Planting shall be carried out over a three-year period after the incidence of regenerating weed
species has been reduced to no more than 5% of the weed control area. Al the species except
species requiring shade shall be planted in Year 1. Replacement species shall be planted in
year 2. Initial planting at 1m centres wil provide rapid canopy closure to shade out weeds.
Species requiring shade shall be planted from year 3 onwards. Canopy species should be
Objectives
planted at 3 metre centres. Some thinning of the planted species may be required to ensure
184. s6(d)
Official
that they do not become etiolated in the longer term.
175.
Species planted at the junction of the bush with the Priority 1 zones shall form a visibly layered
edge - canopy species, sub canopy edge species and massed ground cover.
Policies
the
176.
Vegetative material hanging over the Glenfell Place and Mountain Road boundary fences shall
185. s6(d)
be maintained at a minimum height of 2 metres above the footpath.
177.
Any exotic species on the southern edges of the rock forest adjacent to the Mappin Lawn other
than specimens of Historic, Horticultural or Scientific interest should be removed over time
allowing the rock forest to expand.
under
178.
Upgrading of access ways through the rock forest shall utilise rock material endemic to the site
and shall be confined to making steps safe and useable by reducing riser heights to no more
than 150mm, by extending tread heights to between 450 and 480mm and by re-laying pathways
186.
so the surfacing is smooth and accessible in fine weather. Al pathways and steps must comply
with NZ Safety Standards.
179.
Access through the rock forest should be restricted in wet weather and the winter.
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Released
187. Pruning or removal shall not occur where it might expose views of buildings with no aesthetic
Objectives
appeal.
195. To maintain a healthy vigorous diversified tree stock that is befitting of the importance of the Vice
1982
Regal office and the grandeur of the house.
Trees and tree work
Policies
Structural stability
Act
188. Mature trees are located throughout the grounds. Many of these are of importance because of
their age or commemorative associations.
196. No trees shall threaten the structural integrity of the buildings, services or the safety of users of
189. The trees are the most important part of the garden fabric as they create the structural framework
the grounds.
for the garden and they provide much of the historic fabric of the grounds. They define spaces;
197. Al trees in the grounds shall be maintained in a safe and stable condition.
create shelter and shade; frame views and vistas; screen unpleasant sights; create visual
interest; are indicative of the seasons; are of botanical interest; are a habitat for flora and fauna;
inspections
are necessary as the lungs of the city; reduce the scale of landform and buildings to a comfortable
level and have a high degree of individual amenity. Protection, maintenance and replacement of
198. Gardening staff shall be encouraged to observe and report any incidences of newly broken
them wil ensure that they continue as character defining features.
branches; die back in the crown of trees; cracks in limbs; peeling bark which might indicate fungal
190. The safety of people using the grounds is of paramount importance. The integrity of the house is
attack; high incidents of insects on trees or any other abnormality which might indicate structural
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also of importance. Regular inspections of tree stock wil reveal problems before they become
unsoundness.
too dif icult to deal with. A systematic inspection every five years may reveal incipient problems.
199. Should gardening staff report incidences of concern an inspection of the tree shall be carried out
191. If trees have been planted too close together or have become overgrown or misshapen as plants
by a qualified and experienced arborist, using accepted New Zealand Arboriculture Association
around them grow they should be removed before they affect the structural integrity of
standards, within 14 days.
neighbouring trees. The exceptions to the above are the Tulip tree and the Atlantic cedar at the
200. A climbing assessment of all of the large trees within the fall zone of properties and Eden
western end of the Governors Lawn. The form of these trees creates a spectacular focal point
Gardens on the southern boundary and the roads on the northern and eastern boundaries shall
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and draws the eye to the end of the lawn. However, they were planted too close together and
be undertaken in June / July, (with leaves off) of the period immediately post publishing of this
each has adversely affected the form of the other to the extent that neither tree is likely to recover
report and every five years thereafter to establish baseline and ongoing stability. The assessment
their true form should one be removed.
and report shall be undertaken by a qualified and experienced arborist, using accepted New
192. Some trees may extend too far over lawns, the carriageway, pathways or neighbouring property
the
Zealand Arboriculture Association standards.
and they may compromise the design and quality of the border, carriageway or footpath or the
201. A systematic visual assessment of all trees in the grounds shall be carried out annually
quality of life on neighbouring property. The spread of these trees should be managed.
202. Writ en recommendations highlighting any issues or problems shall be forwarded to the
193. Existing planting reflects the age in which the garden was designed. The original planting was
Operations Manager within 4 weeks of the assessment having taken place.
largely exotic and reflected the type of species that were available at the time and the need for
203. Other climbing assessments shall be undertaken if a problem is suspected or identified.
shelter and privacy within the grounds. Smaller trees have been used, in association with shrubs
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and ground cover, to define the spaces around the house and some trees have been used for
commemorative and amenity purposes throughout the site.
194. Some indigenous specimens - such as the pohutukawa on the lawns may have existed on site
Tree removal
prior to the building of the house but the other species were planted to define the driveway and
lawns close to the house.
Historic trees
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204. Should a historic commemorative tree be identified as being unable to be retained, a writ en
210. Al pruning work of branches more than 30mm in diameter in trees shall be undertaken by a
report including the botanical and common name of the tree, its location, the work required and
qualified and experienced arborist using techniques approved by the NZ Arboricultural
the reasons it is to be removed shall be submitted to the Operations Manager who wil seek the
Association. Pruning of branches of less than 30mm diameter shall be carried out using
1982
approval for the removal from the Government House Buildings and Grounds Advisory group.
techniques approved by the NZ Arboriculture Association
Council consent is required for the removal of any trees identified as being notable in the
211. Approval shall be sought for any work requiring more than 10% remediation. A written report
Auckland Council Unitary Plan.
including the botanical and common name of the tree, its location, the work required and the
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205. Any historic or commemorative tree that is removed shall be replaced with the same species or
reasons it is to be pruned shall be submit ed to the Operations Manager, for approval.
a similar species or a species of rare or scientific interest – if it is appropriate to the site.
212. Council consent is required to prune trees identified as notable in the Auckland Unitary Plan
Replacement species shall be approved by the Operations Manager and details of this shall be
213. The following routine tree work may be carried out on all trees other than notable trees listed in
recorded on the database held by the Operations Manager.
the Auckland Council Unitary Plan, without the consent of Council or Government House:
206. Plaques associated with trees that have been removed shall also be removed and they shall be
a)
Work requiring less than 10% remediation on individual trees, including dead wooding and
held by Government House as part of the site’s archival records.
removing broken branches.
b)
Management (light crown lift) of the pohutukawa on the edges of the Governors Lawn to
prevent sweeping branches inhibiting general maintenance procedures.
Life threatening Trees
c)
Side crown reduction of trees along carriageways and along the margins of footpaths to
207. Any tree that is identified by a qualified and experienced arborist as presenting an immediate
avoid branches impeding vehicle or pedestrian traffic.
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threat to life or property may be removed immediately – irrespective of its historic or
d)
Management of trees along the boundaries to avoid branches hanging over neighbouring
commemorative status. A written report including the botanical and common name of the tree,
property.
its location, the work required and the reasons it is has been removed shal be submit ed to the
Operations Manager within 48 hours. The Operations Manager wil advise the Government
Trees in areas of cultural significance
House Buildings and Grounds Advisory Group of its removal.
208. Council consent is required for the removal of any trees identified as being notable in the
214. If it is necessary to remove trees in areas including the rock forest, where historic artefacts are
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Auckland Council Unitary Plan.
believed to exist, the stump shall preferably be left to decay. Alternatively, the hole shall be dug
by hand and any historic artefacts discovered shall be reported to Operations Manager (For
further information on encouraging decay in tree stumps, the appropriate use of stump grinders,
General tree removal
the
tree spades and back hoes plus guidelines for replanting refer to the online publication
-
209. Approval shall be sought for the removal of any other individual tree that is more than 8 metres
Clippings - Replacing Trees in cultural landscapes produced by the National Parks Service. U.S,
high. Valid reasons for removal may include overcrowding, poor structural form, inappropriate
Department of the Interior at www.nps.gov/oclp/Clippings.pdf
.
species, death, decline and disease. A writ en report including the botanical and common name
of the tree, its location, the work required and the reasons it is to be removed shall be submit ed
Work within the root zone of trees
under
to the Operations Manager for approval. Al reports shall also be submitted to the Governor
General as a matter of courtesy.
215. No general excavation more than 50mm deep (excluding routine gardening work) shall be
undertaken within the root zone of any live tree including historic and commemorative trees.
216. No fil other than 50mm of compost or 100mm bark or mulch shall be placed in the root zone of
Pruning
any live tree including historic and commemorative trees. (The root zone is defined as a circle
around the trunk with a diameter of half the height of the tree for upright trees or a circle around
the tree that extends to the outermost tip of the widest vegetation whichever is the greater.)
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217. Should work within the root zone of any tree be required, a report identifying the botanical name
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of the tree, its location, the reasons for the work, the proposed process and the personnel
222. To ensure that the character and the integrity of the plant palette, landscape fabric and qualities
involved shall be submitted to the Operations Manager for approval.
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are protected and maintained to an appropriate standard for a Vice Regal residence.
218. A qualified arborist experienced in the protection of historic trees shall supervise any approved
excavation work.
219. Techniques for protection shall include fencing off any parts of the tree to be protected, laying
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Act
timber decks over the surface of the ground under the tree or other temporary protection that wil
223. Al historic or commemorative trees removed shall be replaced with the same or a similar species
not affect the tree health.
unless the species used previously was unsuited to the environmental conditions. New tree may
be of rare or scientific interest – if appropriate to the site.
Records
224. The container size of replacement species used in amenity areas should be no larger than PB
220. The database of historic, significant and commemorative or ceremonial trees shall be updated.
95 or the equivalent. (The planting of trees ex large containers is expensive, requires
Each tree of more than 8 metres in height plus smaller trees of historic or botanic significance
considerable expertise and maintenance and often leads to failure. Using specimens, ex smaller
shall be identified, located by GPS and mapped with a number, the date of mapping, the tree’s
containers is not only price effective, but it also enables plants to get bet er start; the root to top
botanical and common name, statistics - approximate age, height and spread, condition, date
growth ratio is better and small plants are not so prone to wind damage. Smaller plants are also
planted - if known, reason planted, and significance being recorded on a data base. The database
less likely to damage in-ground archaeological material.)
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shall be updated annually. A copy of the database shall be lodged in the Government House
225. The container size of replacement shrub and groundcover species shall be no more than PB 5.
official archives and copies shall also be kept in the maintenance yard. Mark trees listed on the
Larger specimens have poor vegetation to root ratio and struggle to establish without regular
Auckland Council notable trees list with an asterisk. (Please see Appendix 3 showing the existing
watering. Smaller species have been proven to establish well and grow fast in these conditions.
notable trees listed in the Auckland Council’s Unitary Plan as orange circles and the rest of the
significant trees on the site as green circles.
Recommendations
221. Al notable trees should be made available for listing on the RNZIH ‘Notable Trees of New
Official
Zealand’ database.
226. An arborist should be commissioned to update the tree database showing all historic trees and
all large trees over 8 metres. The botanical name of the tree, its common name height, estimated
age; brief description of its condition, a photograph of it or the group within which it sits shall be
the
included in the report. The location of the tree shall be identified by GPS and recorded in
electronic form.
227. An arborist shall be used to advise staff working in the garden how to prune branches of less
than 30mm correctly.
under
Commemorative planting – (See Appendix 3- List of commemorative trees)
228. Commemorative planting in the grounds is limited because the site is well planted, and additional
tree planting may potentially compromise layout and therefore the character of the site tree. If
planting must be used to commemorate significant events careful consideration must be given
TREE PLANTING
to the location of the tree and future effects on the garden.
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SCULPTURE & INTERVENTIONS
229. The Government House Buildings and Grounds Advisory group shall approve the gifting of trees;
239. The only sculpture currently on the site is located by the front door. Sculpture and interventions
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however, dignitaries shall be actively discouraged from gifting as the grounds are well planted.
are considered appropriate to the site, but they must be located carefully to avoid them
230. The Government House Buildings and Grounds Advisory group assisted by grounds staff and
compromising the integrity of the landscape or the historic fabric of the grounds.
specialist experts shall identify potential species that might be used on the site, they shall also –
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in association with the maintenance crew, identify potential locations where any additional
commemorative trees might be located, and they shall also approve any additional
Objectives
commemorative tree planting. The tree species and potential locations shal be marked on a plan
To allow commemorative sculpture to be located in the grounds where it might be used to surprise and
and submitted to the Of icial Secretary by December 20th of each year.
delight the visitor.
231. Commemorative species shall not compromise the historic fabric of the grounds or reduce their
integrity and they shall be appropriate to the site’s environmental conditions. However, as trees
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are removed because they become structurally unsound , decline or die opportunities may arise
240. No sites for sculpture or interventions have been identified.
for replacement trees to commemorate an occasion or a person.
241. Sculpture or interventions shall not change the fabric of the grounds or reduce their integrity.
232. Commemorative trees may be indigenous or exotic, evergreen or deciduous, but they shall
242. Sculpture and interventions shall be used sparingly, and their location shall be discrete.
complement existing planting surrounding the space where they are to be located.
243. Sculpture shall be sited so it becomes a focal point in its own space.
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233. Commemorative planting should utilise tree species that are proven to grow well on volcanic soils
244. Sculpture or interventions shall take advantage of sunlight and shadows.
be either native or rare or endangered species, although named exotic cultivars or species are
245. Interventions shall not overpower a space.
also acceptable. Al trees must be assessed as being suitable for the site by a qualified and
246. No sculpture or interventions shall be placed on the Mappin or Governors Lawns.
experienced landscape architect or arborist.
247. Sculpture may be donated by retiring Governor Generals. All sculpture or interventions shall be
234. No commemorative trees with red, yellow or variegated foliage are permit ed.
approved by a Design Commit ee comprising the Government House Buildings and Grounds
235. Government House shall provide potential donors with a list of species appropriate to each
Advisory Committee, assisted by grounds staff and specialist experts including the garden
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particular site.
manager, an art consultant expert in sculpture and a heritage landscape architect familiar with
236. Al commemorative trees shall be tagged with an anodized aluminium tree tag (predril ed and
the heritage sites in the grounds,
with a green background) with an identification number, its botanical name and common name
and the name of the donor and the date donated.
the
237. Al commemorative or ceremonial trees shall be identified, located by GPS and mapped with the
date of mapping, the tree’s botanical and common name, height, condition, age, date planted or
approximate age - if known, reason planted, and significance being recorded on a data base.
The database shall be updated as events occur. A copy of the database shall be lodged in the
Government House official archives and copies shall also be kept in the Maintenance yard.
under
238. No commemorative trees shall be placed on the Mappin or Governors Lawns.
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LANDSCAPE DEVELOPMENT
RECOMENDATIONS
1982
248. The grounds have areas of roading, footpaths, steps and paving most of which are utilitarian.
General
Rock walls of varying age and historic significance are also located throughout the grounds.
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Some of it will, or already requires renovation and replacement. The current circulation system -
254. Any proposal to repair or replace any onsite built infrastructure must be undertaken by a
primarily surfaced in asphalt - has lit le legibility or hierarchy.
registered NZILA landscape architect experienced in working with historic landscapes and
familiar with the history of the Government House grounds and this management plan.
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Nursery area gates
General infrastructure
255. An automatic gate shall be fit ed to the entrance into the Nursery /Service area to conceal it from
249. When obsolete garden infrastructure is removed, new or replacement garden infrastructure –
the driveway.
walls, paths, steps, seating and lighting - shall be specifically designed for the site. It must reflect
and respond to the site; contribute to garden legibility and memorability; not adversely affect the
historic intention or the heritage fabric of the site of the site and it may be regarded as a potential
Formal entry to the house beside the rock garden
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intervention with individual artistic merit conforming to a high standard of design.
256. Redevelop the entry area to the house as follows:
250. A logical, legible and coherent hierarchy of road and footpath design, width and surfacing shall
257. Extend the planted areas on the southern side of the drive either side of the entrance to the
be developed. Materials used shall reflect and complement the materiality of the house.
garages to better screen the garages and to focus the arrival experience on the steps rather than
further up the drive.
Tennis court
258. Plant the new areas as per the adjacent planting
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259. Replace the asphalt paving between the rock garden and the mound and potentially over the
251. The tennis court and the tennis court pavilion shall be kept clear of leaves, and any consequential
drive with concrete pavers or similar to denote the entry / arrival space. Paving materiality should
algal growth, moss, lichen or weeds. Leaf litter on the court surface shall be removed daily during
provide a visual connection and linkage to the rock and concrete used on site. Imported slate or
periods of Vice Regal tenancy and weekly otherwise, unless staff wish to use the court frequently.
the
brick type pavers including Holland pavers are not considered appropriate.
Swimming Pool
252. The surroundings of the swimming pool shall be maintained to the same standard as the rest of
Savannah Road entry gates and drive through to the house
the grounds. The pool and pool cover shall be kept free of fallen leaves during the period of Vice
260. Replace asphalt paving between Savannah Road and the pavilion with concrete pavers or similar
Regal tenancy and at all other times leaf litter shall be removed on a weekly basis.
to denote principal use as a pedestrian entrance. Asphalt may be retained as principal surfacing
under
with pavers slowly being used to guide pedestrians towards the pavilion and then to denote
Nursery or service area and associated buildings
arrival.
253. The nursery or service area is currently the subject of development options. Management of the
261. Paving materiality should provide a visual connection and linkage to the rock and concrete used
area is not included in this document.
on site. I.e. do not use imported slate or brick type pavers
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Pavilion patio
Edges
262. Replace the asphalt apron to west of pavilion with a wide paved area to act as a forecourt /
272. Edges abutting lawns shall be trimmed to achieve a clean vertical edge to the lawn during periods
outdoor entertaining area to the pavilion with paving to match other paving around the house.
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of Vice Regal tenancy or events. At all other times they shall be kept trimmed with no more than
Rock forest
a 50mm overhang.
263. Engage a landscape architect specialising in historic rehabilitation to develop a plan for making
273. Edges on kerbs, paths and the driveways shall be kept free of grass longer than 50mm.
Act
the steps and walkways safe and to create an interpretive area at the western end of the tennis
court so visitors may see the rock walls and rock stable remnants.
Traffic
274. No vehicles other than garden maintenance vehicles are permitted on the lawns.
TURF CULTURE
264. The lawns are a major feature of the grounds and provide the venue for official activities
Irrigation
275. In dry weather lawns shal be irrigated to ensure healthy lawn growth is maintained at all times.
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At no time shall watering exceed field capacity.
265. The lawns shall be maintained in a tidy, weed free, healthy state at all times. Bare areas are
Information
unacceptable. However, where conditions are shady, damp and steeply sloping, a thinner layer
WEED CONTROL
of grass is acceptable provided it is mixed with Mercury Bay weed or Cotula.
266. The grass sward shall be continuous with even density.
276. The current maintenance staff have made significant inroads into eradicating invasive weeds,
267. Annual lawn maintenance shall include aeration, dethatching, weed and moss eradication,
However the nature of the rock forest – long and narrow and the nature of the surrounding land
fertiliser application, irrigation, over-sowing as necessary, lit er and leaf removal and mowing.
– Infested in invasive weeds in places – makes the grounds prone to re-infestation.
268. Species of grass shall be appropriate to garden use and ground conditions.
277. In general terms invasive weed species are not acceptable on the property. Eradication of weed
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269. Lawns shall be completely free of rubbish, leaf litter and natural debris from trees during the
species of more than 3m2 such as the bay, Wandering Jew and Ivy must be funded separately
periods of Vice Regal tenancy or during events. At any other times clearance of leaf litter and
to general garden maintenance until their incidence is no more than 1% of the total vegetation
debris shall be carried out with sufficient frequency to ensure that healthy conditions for grass
on site. Weed species shall be sprayed or removed and disposed of appropriately on an ongoing
the
growth are maintained.
basis.
270. Grass height shall be a maximum of 25mm at any time and lawns shall be mown with frequency,
278. Al sprays shall be applied by a Registered Grow Safe applicator and should be applied
varying with seasonal grass growth to achieve a uniform cut over 100% of the grassed area. The
according to the manufacturers recommendations.
lawns shall be maintained clear of all grass clippings.
under
Objects in the lawns
PEST CONTROL
271. The area at the base of any trees, or around rock outcrops, paving stones etc shall be kept free
of grass growth.
279. The property shall be kept free of all animal pests including feral cats, mustelids possums, rats
and mice. A pest control programme shall be prepared for the approval by the Operations
Manager and implemented on an ongoing basis.
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1982
Act
APPENDICIESInformation
Official
the
under
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s6(d)
1982
Act
Information
Official
the
under
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Appendix 2 - Garden design principals
9.
Simplicity, accent and climax - Simplicity is the opposite of complexity but avoiding of it can
1982
lead to a lack of unity. Accents are the interest points in the garden and repetition of them can
lead to climax. Climax is the deliberate creation of increasing interest to a maximum level of
1.
Garden design evolves in two ways; the first of which is the practical response to the functional
interest at the end - such as the Taj Mahal.
requirements of the user and the underlying environmental conditions. The second is a
10.
Repetition, rhythm and sequence - Repetition is repeating a similar theme but not necessarily
Act
modification of that functional response into good design through the conscious application of
with regular emphasis. The repetition of plant materials, hard materials or shapes such as using
the principals of design.
a distinctive modular paving or furniture design wil result in unity.
Rhythm is a regularly
2.
Good planting design utilises a basic set of principles. The principals of design are unity, balance,
introduced element in a garden such a line of upright cypress, rolling hil s or a modular design.
proportion and scale, simplicity, accent and climax, repetition, rhythm and sequence, all of which
Sequence uses the same methods of repetition and rhythm but introduces variation. E.g. An
are clearly interrelated, overlapping and integrated with each other.
avenue of silver birch, then limes, then horse chestnut changing from a fine leaf, loosely
3.
However, it is the individual taste of the client or the designer, which wil influence whether the
structured plant through a mid-sized, moderately well-structured tree with medium sized leaves
garden is Victorian, Art deco, Modernist etc.
to a big tree with a strong form and big leaves increasing the feeling of strength and
4.
Garden design utilises elements such as underlying landform and the inherent characteristics of
advancement.
the site such as shelter, views, natural water etc. plus infrastructure materials such as plant
11.
Composition - The elements of any composition in the garden are based on 4 key elements –
material, paving, walls, fencing, pergolas etc. The infrastructure materials should respond to and
Information
mass, form and line, texture and colour. These are the characteristics inherent in nature, - the
or reflect the underlying site characteristics if an effective composition is to be achieved.
shape, structure, surface and colour of plants and their flowers.
5.
Unity is the organisation, placing and fit ing together of various elements of a garden design, so
12.
Mass is the degree of openness or solidity of the plant. It is not related to size but rather to the
that a harmonious whole is created. Unity is based on the rhythm of the underlying landform, the
density of the plant. The bigger the mass of the tree, the heavier the effect it creates. A dense
domination of one type of vegetation and the fact that human use and buildings are in sympathy
solid tree such as a karaka is more dominant that a similarly sized kowhai.
with their surroundings.
13.
Form is the three-dimensional shape or line of the plant. Most plants are either conical, oval,
6.
Unity can be achieved by limiting the variety of materials used and by having the strength of a
round or horizontal. Plant material has natural form and line such as the billowy, tufting of willows
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single purpose – selecting forms and materials, which are strong enough to express one
along a riverbank or the vigorous, vertical emphasis of a line Lombardy poplars.
overruling idea. The result is style.
14.
Texture is derived from the size of the leaves and the way they hang on the branch. Plants with
7.
Balance is the inherent feeling of equilibrium or stability that is mentally important in a design.
large leaves create a coarser more dominant texture and advance in a design whilst smaller
the
The human mind is at racted to balanced features and they hold attention. There are two types
leaved plants result in finer texture, which is recessive. Strong big leaves should be used
of balance, the first of which is symmetrical balance where the same theme is repeated either
sparingly or as focal points. Open branched trees look good in the foreground, where they can
side of a main axis. The second is asymmetrical balance where precise balance is created in the
be used to frame views. Heavy dense trees look best as background. Plants with strong texture
mind, where the weight on one side equals the other mentally. This may be achieved by changing
should be used sparingly particularly when used with plants with predominantly smaller leaves.
the form, line texture and colour of the plants.
The use of plants with a similar texture creates unity.
8.
Proportion and scale - Proportion is the relative size of the dif erent parts of the garden and
under
15.
Colour is also important, and its basic purpose is to create focus, to act as camouflage or to
their relationship to each other.
Scale is their relationship to the scale of the human beings using
create an atmosphere. Its effects are variable and dependant on surrounding colours. The
the garden.
Our requirements dictate the basic scale of any space, which in turn dictates
dominating colour in the garden is the green of grass and trees and all other plant colours and
proportion of the space. 1 or 2 people might use the home garden, while a crowd might use the
tones should be related to it. The basis for all planting should therefore, be green – a subdued
public park. A common fault is to design too small, to underestimate human size and to cram too
setting for showing off the finery of arriving guests or the drama of the approach to house.
much in. Proportion and scale are themselves attributes of unity and without them there can be
no harmony in the design
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16.
Tone and colour unify landscapes just as they do paintings. Planting may be all one colour to
25.
The type of material worked with must respond to the environmental characteristics of the site
create dramatic effects as in large patches of daffodils or massed azaleas under trees.
e.g. a hot dry bank. Which plants are chosen and how they are put together is dependent on the
17.
The use of contrasting colour intensifies the effect, the texture of the surface or background.
designer’s taste. However, the principals of composition remain the same.
1982
18.
The smaller the leaves are and the smoother the surface is, the greater its reflective qualities
26.
Overall one or more elements need to be emphasised to obtain a unifying key – e.g. use one
are. For example, a dark green dense fine leafed background wil intensify the colour of flowering
type of tree as a dominant such as the pohutukawa or one type of shrub species such as the
plants in front of it. Obvious variation in emphasis can be created by using variations in the
hydrangea throughout.
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textural qualities of plants of the surface affects design.
27.
Each individual composition in the garden should also be arranged according to the principals of
19.
Distance and the time of day also effect colour. The further the plant is way the less value the
rhythm balance and emphasis.
colour has.
28.
In composition
rhythm is created by repeating physical elements such as the shape of a tree or
20.
Colours can be divided into warm colours, which advance - red / orange and yellow, or cold
shrub or a particular species of plant.
Balance is achieved by centering the design, - finding the
colours, which recede – blue and violet. Green is half way between yellow and blue and is
point where the eye returns to rest so that all the parts fit in around it.
Emphasis is the strong
therefore neutral. Advancing colours look larger and can make a space look smaller or draw
point in the design, the spot that relieves the boredom - where the eye is ultimately led to – the
unwanted attention. Cooler colours work in the opposite way. Bright colours and should be used
feature.
sparingly to be harmonious with plants of weaker colour. Blues and greys add to distance. Strong
29.
A mass of introduced colour, which ignores the natural sources of the atmosphere of the place
hot colours foreshorten distance. Golden or glaucous varieties can destroy composition by
such as bright orange flowers in a bush setting, is an example of this.
breaking what may be a coherent whole into unrelated fragments.
30.
The various parts of the garden should link together so the design has a basic form and structure,
Information
which is both functionally and visually appropriate.
31.
Trees create stature, scale and framing. The shrub layer creates human scale, spatial division
The Principals of Composition
and enclosure at a lower level. The herbaceous and ground cover plants form the ground pattern
21.
The fundamental pattern or composition of landscapes and gardens results from the distribution
and interior decoration.
and proportion of open space and solid mass. The solids divide the land into spaces or
32.
The correct balance between them all gives harmony which is somewhere between monotony
enclosures giving a pattern of closed and open, of in and out, of dark and light. The solids may
and visual chaos. Gardens are for people to enjoy and everything in them should relate to the
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consist of hil s, trees or other strong plant growth or architecture. To be effective spatial division
human scale and the scale at which it is to be used. If a single person is to feel at ease in the
must be above eye level. The spaces may consist of open ground or water.
garden, the spaces must be small enough to be comfortable and detailed enough to be
22.
The structural role of the plant is important, just as the walls of the house create the rooms. The
interesting without the interest elements overpowering the space. If the spaces are to be used
the
principals of planting composition mean that how the plant fits into the composition is more
by many, they should be large enough to accommodate a crowd without detracting from the
important than its decorative qualities / flower colour. Physically the function of planting is to give
crowd.
shade and shelter: visually it determines the proportion and form of the garden, the contrast
33.
Finally, the aspects of visual effect and functional suitability in planting design - use of the right
between open and closed and the division of space. It provides texture, framing, background,
plant in the right place - cannot be divided. The success of the design wil depend on finding the
tone and sculptural form.
right plant for the place, the qualities the appropriate plants possess - their ability to grow and
under
23.
The visual characteristics of the plants must be considered and arranged in some sort of order.
thrive in a given position, hardiness to the climate, tolerance of sun and shade, dryness or
The principals of composition apply to all sizes of plants. The composition may either be the
moisture, acid or alkaline soils - and the role they are to fulfil.
classic combination of upright, recumbent and prostrate forms (oval, round and flat) or the more
modernist form of a simpler contrast between vertical and horizontal or the static and dynamic.
24.
If the composition is to be classic, there should be a tree layer, a shrub layer and the ground
layer. If it is modernist it should be simple with one or more layers massed together.
3
Released
Appendix 3 – Council overlays including notable or scheduled trees
1982
Act
Information
Official
the
under
Released
Appendix 4 - Weed species
1982
Ageratina riparia – Mist flower
Anredera cordifolia – mignonette vine
Araujia Sericifera - Moth Plant
Act
Asparagus asparagoides – smilax
Asparagus scandens - climbing asparagus
Calystegia silvatica – greater bind weed
Eleagnus reflexa - Eleagnus
Hedera helix – ivy
Hedychium gardnerianus - wild ginger
Hedychium flavescens - ginger
Laurus nobilis – Mediterranean bay tree
Information
Ligustrum lucidum - tree privet
Ligustrum sinense – Chinese privet
Paraserianthes lophantha - brush wattle
Prunus avium – wild cherry
Senecio mikanoides – German ivy
Official
Solanum mauritanium - woolly nightshade
Tradescantia fluminensis – wandering Jew
the
under
Released
Appendix 5 – Property titles
1982
Act
Information
Official
the
under
1
Released
1982
Act
Information
Official
the
under
2
Released
Appendix 6 – Statistics
1982
Al areas subject to verification by survey
Act
Boundary measurements
Glenfell Place – 333.5m
Western boundary – 132m
Eastern – aggregate – 129.5
Southern – aggregate – 367m
Areas
Total area 3.9915 ha
Information
Mappin lawn – 3935m2
Governors lawn- 6195m2
Tennis court lawns- 1250m2
Council Overlays
Official
Council has identified significant ecological area covering the rock forest and adjacent planted gardens
along the Glenfell Place boundary, the northern amenity border on the Governors Lawn, the western
amenity gardens and exotic trees and the southern boundary planting adjacent to Eden Gardens as well
the
as all the significant pohutukawa around the Governors Lawn.
The Rock Forest area is identified as a significant natural feature.
under
3
Released
