Ortel Garden - West Melton

A bare paddock, purchased in 1992, was all the canvas needed for Suzanne Pickford and Geoff Turner to create the enchanting Ortel Gardens and Nursery on the outskirts of West Melton. 

Ortel Gardens visit begins with islands of native species greeting you at the entrance to the property, before opening to a double avenue of turkey oaks lining the driveway, guiding you to the start of the garden. 

a rich transformation

Over the decades, the paddock has been transformed into a stunning sanctuary, filled with alpine treasures, enchanting woodlands and a mix of formal and informal landscaping that is rich with colours and charm. 

The gardens unfold through a series of rooms, incorporating natural materials, layered plantings and works of art that often surprise and delight. Sculptures can be found throughout the garden, most are by local artists along with Suzanne and Geoff’s son, Henry, the youngest artist to be represented in Christchurch Art Gallery’s permanent collection. 

clever repurposing to surprise and delight

Sustainability and recycled materials have been key elements in developing various landscaped areas. Everyday items have been repurposed throughout; seats provide colour and rest; decommissioned concrete telephone poles creating an elevated bulb garden, worn ski field goods lift cable providing support to netting protecting the berry garden. The garden pathways are bordered by cut logs and filled with local walnut shells. 

The garden embraces the natural flow of the seasons. As one plant fades, another is growing beside it, ready to bloom, ensuring a continuous cycle of colour and textures throughout the year. The planting of seemingly opposing plant varieties next to each other, draws the eye in unexpected way and creates a sense of discovery. 

The potager styled vegetable garden includes a folly paying homage to Spanish architect and designer Antoni Gaudi, blending artistry with functionality. 

the tranquility of water

The many water features provide a sense of calmness. There is the meandering water race gurgling along its path, lined with native grasses and azaleas, a lily pond reminiscent of Monet’s famous painting, and a formal reflecting pond adorned with a sculpture crafted by Henry, all contribute to the garden’s tranquil ambiance. 

The nursery is filled with alpine, rock, perennial and drought tolerant plants, along with furniture, stakes ad hypertufa troughs for online purchase. When alpine specialist garden, Hokonui Alpines closed, Suzanne purchased as many rare finds as she could, with the view to keep the cultivating the plants so they are not lost to New Zealanders. 

Ortel Gardens reflects a love for horticulture and creativity. The garden has evolved over 30 years to be a sanctuary where native species share space with plants inspired by far-off places, all under the careful eye of Suzanne and Geoff.  

Ortel Gardens is not just a garden; it’s a living, breathing work of art. 

Visit by appointment only.

Nursery available online www.ortel.nz