We had a landscaper come in and draw a plan. Re-used the whole bricks into a grid pattern, and filled the squares with concrete. This summer's job is to build the bench seats around the outside for a seating area. The flat surface has been great for our children - they learned to ride their bikes out here, and love decorating it :-)

I would consider a small retaining wall perhaps 2-3 planks high this will provide support to the bank but also allow the pathway to remain clear and formal. The ferns seem to be doing well but could do with a tidy up. I would also prune the tree so it allows a bit more light into the section to help prevent dampness, you also want to take it away from the house, without destroying it's natural shape. As ferns seem to naturally want to grow there, you could continue that theme. Perhaps some other shade / cooler temperature type plants with some flowers could be a good addition. I am not sure which plants can tolerate the cold Dunedin winters, so you best contact is your local garden centre. You want plants that are lush all year round. Also have a look at other plants growing in the neighbourhood as that will give you a good idea of what does and doesn't do well in your climate. Good Luck.

Any recommendations for a landscaper in Tauranga? Need some paving path edging etc done

We just had a pool installed and have lots of space surrounding the pool - and a blank canvas with two retaining walls. The pool is 4m x 7m and one side has a travertine patio (house side). From the coping tile edge to the first wall there is 1.8m for a path of some sort, plantings, etc We are installing the pool fence on top of the retaining walls on the short side of the pool. Looking for something at pool level so there is a bit of circulation space but also something that won’t get into the pool. (And no more concrete!) Tropical ideas welcome as we are in Brisbane.