In the Company of Gardeners

In the Company of Gardeners offers a magnificent collection of gardens from across New Zealand, captured in stunning photographs, accompanied by informative and entertaining text that provides a thoughtful commentary on New Zealand gardening in the twenty-first century.

Beautifully photographed by top garden photographer Juliet Nicholas, this book is a visual feast. However, it is much more than just a collection of images. While showcasing some of the most magnificent gardens in the country, the book also reflects on gardening in a broader sense.

Gardens, described here as managed landscapes, are as diverse as the tastes of their managers. The gardeners featured in these pages include botanists, conservationists, food growers, and artists. The gardens range from a food forest on the south coast to a dry garden in Cromwell, a community garden in Christchurch, a subtropical jungle in Kapiti, a productive Māori garden on the east coast, and a historic whaling station in the far north.

In light of our growing awareness of climate change and land degradation, the role of gardeners as kaitiaki (guardians) is explored. There is also the infectious enthusiasm found in the company of gardeners, showcasing how they gain inspiration and share ideas. Muses include parents, siblings, spouses, and nature itself. These gardens might be seen as snapshots of the utopias we all crave.

With enough botanical detail to appeal to the experienced gardener, the book will also inspire newcomers to don gardening gloves—or to sit back and enjoy what is also an exquisite coffee table book.