Landscapers North Island

Why work with a professional landscaper?

North Island sites range from volcanic slopes to windy coastal dunes. A professional landscaper blends horticulture, hardscape construction and project management to deliver an outdoor space that survives the local climate and aligns with council requirements.

Unlike a DIY approach, qualified landscapers carry insurances, employ licensed trades and can coordinate subcontractors such as earth-moving operators and irrigation specialists. For larger master-planned projects they often collaborate with Landscape Architects or Landscape Designers to ensure form and function work together.

Typical services offered

• Site clearing, contouring and drainage solutions
• Hardscape construction – decks, retaining walls, paving, pool surrounds
• Plant selection, soil preparation and mass planting
• Outdoor lighting, irrigation and smart-garden technology
• Ongoing maintenance contracts for residential estates and commercial grounds

North Island climate & compliance

From subtropical Northland to cooler Wellington, micro-climates dictate plant palettes and construction materials. Seasoned contractors know which species handle drought, salt spray or heavy clay, and which timbers or aggregates meet local durability ratings.

Ensure your landscaper follows the New Zealand Institute of Landscape Architects (NZILA) best-practice guidelines and, where structural elements exceed 1.5 m in height, the NZ Building Code.

What does it cost?

Pricing varies by scope:

• Basic planting makeover: $80–$150 /m²
• Premium design-build with hardscapes: $250–$600 /m²
• Full resort-style landscape with pool & outdoor kitchen: $800 +/m²

Most North Island landscapers provide itemised quotes. Materials such as pavers, sleepers and turf are typically supplied at trade rates; you can also source your own through our curated landscaping supplies.

Project workflow

1. Consultation: Measure, photograph and discuss goals, budget and timeline.
2. Concept plan: Scaled drawings, mood boards and plant schedules.
3. Detailed design: Construction drawings, engineering input where required.
4. Build: Site set-out, earthworks, construction and planting.
5. Handover & maintenance: Care guide or ongoing service agreement.

Many landscaping professionals offer a turn-key package, streamlining every stage.

Questions to ask before hiring

• Can you show recent projects similar in scale and soil conditions?
• Which team member will supervise the site day-to-day?
• What warranties do you offer on workmanship and plants?
• How do you handle council permits, utility locates and health & safety reporting?
• What contingency allowances are included for weather delays or material shortages?