Press Release
NEW ZEALAND GARDEN TO BE RENEWED
12 February 2007
Late April 2007 will see the opening of the redesigned New Zealand Garden in the Savill Garden. On completion, the garden will display one of the biggest collections of New Zealand plants in the world.
Plants were originally introduced into The Savill Garden as a gift from the people of New Zealand, following the state visit of HM The Queen in 1986. The demolition of the old visitor facilities allows for the development of a more ambitious garden, with many new specimens. The plans and design were provided by the New Zealand designer Sam Martin, who found inspiration in the unique and diverse habitats of his native country.
The flora of New Zealand is compelling, with at least 80% of the plants occurring nowhere else - a consequence of the island’s long isolation from other landmasses. Sam Martin’s designs showcase important aspects of his country’s flora with the use of tussock grasses, striking specimens of cabbage tree (Cordyline australis) and spiky groups of silver-leaved astelias.
The Maori people have long exploited the medicinal and utilitarian aspects of their native plants, and we plan to reflect this usage in the new garden. There are plans to enter the Maori names on the plant labels in addition to their Latin names, and further details of the ethno-botany of the islands’ will be available on information boards.
The garden is due to open at the end of April 2007. This year marks the 75th anniversary of The Savill Garden, and the opening is part of The Crown Estate's celebrations. There are many new developments and activities being planned to mark the anniversary - for more information please visit the The Royal Landscape website.
Further Information
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