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Gold award, Commercial Build (over $500,000), and a Special Feature Award at the Landscapes of Distinction Awards 2025, located in Tahunanui, Nelson. Developed by Kūmānu Environmental.

The area previously recognized as Modellers Pond illustrates that civil infrastructure, such as stormwater management, can be multifunctional. Kūmānu Environmental has transformed the underutilized, algae-covered park into a vibrant landscape that harmonizes stormwater, tidal flows, ecological improvement, and a dynamic playspace.

The design includes tidal waterways, an updated miniature railway, natural climbing structures and rope courses, viewing platforms, a bird-watching hut, estuarine vegetation, hammocks, and a teepee, all blending seamlessly with the adjacent Waimea Estuary. Materials like natural timber and stone reflect the driftwood creations that children construct on Tahunanui beach, with marine-grade rope selected for its durability in a saline setting. Built during the challenges of Covid and significant flooding, it has maintained its quality for nearly three years. The client praised the final outcome as outstanding.

Te Pā Harakeke

Importance of the Project

Every Registered Master Landscaper has successfully met the criteria to display the designation, ensuring that the professional you engage is qualified, responsible, and supported by a national organization that endorses their work. Locate a Registered Master Landscaper at masterlandscapers.org.nz.

Project Acknowledgments

Member: Kūmānu Environmental. A project by the Nelson City Council. Recognized at the Landscapes of Distinction Awards 2025.

Discover the judges’ reasons for this award.

Gold award, Commercial Build (over $500,000), and a Special Feature Award at the Landscapes of Distinction Awards 2025, located in Tahunanui, Nelson. Developed by Kūmānu Environmental.

The area previously recognized as Modellers Pond illustrates that civil infrastructure, such as stormwater management, can be multifunctional. Kūmānu Environmental has transformed the underutilized, algae-covered park into a vibrant landscape that harmonizes stormwater, tidal flows, ecological improvement, and a dynamic playspace.

The design includes tidal waterways, an updated miniature railway, natural climbing structures and rope courses, viewing platforms, a bird-watching hut, estuarine vegetation, hammocks, and a teepee, all blending seamlessly with the adjacent Waimea Estuary. Materials like natural timber and stone reflect the driftwood creations that children construct on Tahunanui beach, with marine-grade rope selected for its durability in a saline setting. Built during the challenges of Covid and significant flooding, it has maintained its quality for nearly three years. The client praised the final outcome as outstanding.

Te Pā Harakeke

Importance of the Project

Every Registered Master Landscaper has successfully met the criteria to display the designation, ensuring that the professional you engage is qualified, responsible, and supported by a national organization that endorses their work. Locate a Registered Master Landscaper at masterlandscapers.org.nz.

Project Acknowledgments

Member: Kūmānu Environmental. A project by the Nelson City Council. Recognized at the Landscapes of Distinction Awards 2025.

Discover the judges’ reasons for this award.

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