Littlefarm
Episode: New Zealand? Bay of Plenty
Presenter: Trevor Cochrane
From time to time you find a real gem of a garden and Littlefarm is a real piece of paradise and it is one of the most inspirational gardens The Gurus have been to. The property was originally purchased as a bare paddock and today it has two stunning residents on it, including the barn that recently won a national architectural design award.
Towering over the garden adding depth and tremendous character are feature trees that were planted by the owners over 25 years ago. The Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipfera), along the main house, is grand and provides shade from the sun on hot days. The cherries deliver spectacular flowers in spring and they are still spot flowering in early summer. Then there is the Golden Elm (Ulmus glabra ?Lutescens?) which provides yellow foliage that contrasts right through the year. The climbers include roses, clematis and white wisteria (wisteria floribunda ?Alba?) and they fill the garden with rich colours and heavenly fragrant.
Each hedge borders a different garden with masses of feature perennial plants mixed with roses and topiaries. There is a surprise around every corner and as you walk into the walled garden you can?t help but to be impressed. There is a raw contrast between the materials used like sawn Indian sandstones that are absolutely beautiful and clean that contrasts against the recycled bricks and gravel. Then there is the plant selection, topiaries and a hedge around the outside that is over 7 foot tall. There are also all the contrasts between sounds such as the water trickling down the rustic urns and a bird house that houses doves, it is absolutely magical.
The 7 foot hedge makes an impressive backdrop and the wrought iron gates make a magnificent entry statement. The centre piece of the garden is a brass compass family heirloom that has been given a new home at the heart of this tranquil garden.
All this beauty is set on the side of a mountain, providing never ending views of the picturesque valleys below.
Littlefarm
http://www.gardenandartfest.co.nz/
AS SEEN ON 
