#Garden Maintenance South Auckland

[eastaucklandwoolgro]

Quick and Easy Lawn Establishment with Premium Fine Blend: Perfect for South Island Conditions

Creating a beautiful and resilient lawn doesn’t have to be a complicated process. With the Premium Fine Blend of grass, house owners in Auckland can achieve quick and easy lawn establishment that thrives in South Island conditions. This blend, which consists of 70% winter active rye and 30% creeping and fine fescue, is designed to provide a lush, green lawn that meets the demands of various climates. Here’s how this blend can simplify your lawn installation and maintenance.

The Perfect Blend for South Island Conditions

Adaptable to Diverse Climates

Premium Fine Blend consists of 70% winter active Rye and 30% creeping & fine Fescue grass, offering exceptional adaptability to the unique weather patterns found across the South Island. Whether you're dealing with frosty winters or mild summers, this blend ensures your lawn remains vibrant and resilient.

Quick Establishment

One of the standout features of the Premium Fine Blend is its rapid establishment:

Fast Germination: The rye component germinates quickly, often within 7 to 10 days, allowing homeowners to see results almost immediately.

Dense Coverage: The creeping fescue helps fill in gaps, creating a thick, lush carpet of grass that suppresses weeds and enhances the overall aesthetic.

This quick establishment means less waiting time and faster enjoyment of your outdoor space.

Low Maintenance Requirements

Once established, lawns created with the Premium Fine Blend require minimal upkeep:

Reduced Watering Needs: Thanks to its drought resistant characteristics, this blend requires less frequent watering compared to traditional grass types. This not only saves time but also conserves water.

Tolerant to Close Mowing: The fine texture of this grass blend allows it to withstand close mowing without compromising its health or appearance, making it easier to maintain a neat lawn.

Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal

The Premium Fine Blend offers an attractive lawn that enhances your property’s curb appeal:

Lush Green Colour: The combination of rye and fescue provides a rich green hue that remains vibrant throughout the year.

Fine Texture: The fine blades create a soft and inviting surface that is perfect for outdoor activities or simply enjoying your garden.

Professional Installation Services

For those looking for an effortless lawn installation experience, professional services are available:

Expert Guidance: Woolgro offers professional installation services in Auckland, ensuring that your Premium Fine Blend is laid perfectly for optimal growth.

Aftercare Support: Professional installers provide valuable aftercare advice, helping you maintain your new lawn effectively.

With expert assistance, you can ensure that your lawn gets the best start possible.

Conclusion:

If you’re looking to transform your outdoor space with minimal hassle, the Premium Fine Blend is the perfect choice for lawn establishment in Auckland and the South Island. It’s a low maintenance solution that grows quickly, resists drought, and offers a lush, fine-textured lawn that will last for years.

Get started today and enjoy the beauty and resilience of a Premium Fine Blend lawn the easy way to achieve a stunning outdoor area with minimal effort!

Woolgro

https://www.woolgro.co.nz/locations/east-auckland/

Phone: +6495701985

https://maps.app.goo.gl/BtFjX4GWuaYFrvCA9

[vistalandcare]

Transforming South Auckland: The Role of Landscaping Services and Silt Fence Installation in Commercial Landscapes

In South Auckland, the importance of landscaping services cannot be overstated, especially for commercial properties. A well-designed landscape enhances the overall aesthetics, creates inviting environments, and increases property value. Whether you are a business owner or a property manager, understanding the role of professional landscaping and erosion control measures, like silt fence installation, is essential for maintaining a vibrant and sustainable outdoor space.

Why Landscaping Services Matter

Landscaping services in South Auckland encompass a wide range of solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of commercial properties. Key benefits include:

Enhanced Aesthetics: A professional landscape design combines elements such as trees, shrubs, flowers, and hardscaping to create visually appealing spaces that attract customers.

Increased Property Value: Well-maintained landscapes contribute to a property's overall value, making it more attractive to potential tenants or buyers.

Environmental Benefits: Landscaping can improve air quality, reduce urban heat, and support local wildlife. Sustainable landscaping practices help preserve the local ecosystem.

Functional Outdoor Spaces: Landscapes are not just about beauty; they also provide functional spaces for employees and clients. Outdoor seating areas, pathways, and gardens can enhance the user experience.

The Importance of Silt Fence Installation

Silt fences are a crucial component of erosion control in landscaping projects, especially in commercial settings. Here's why they matter:

Erosion Control: Silt fences help prevent soil erosion by trapping sediment and allowing water to filter through. This is vital in maintaining the integrity of landscaping and preventing runoff during heavy rains.

Compliance with Regulations: In New Zealand, environmental regulations often require erosion control measures on construction sites. Installing silt fences ensures compliance and helps protect local waterways from sediment pollution.

Cost-Effectiveness: Preventing erosion through proper silt fence installation can save businesses money in the long run by reducing the need for costly repairs and landscape restoration.

Commercial Landscapes: A Growing Need

As businesses in South Auckland continue to expand, the demand for quality commercial landscaping services grows. Here are some trends shaping the industry:

Sustainable Practices: More companies are looking for eco-friendly landscaping solutions that minimize environmental impact and promote sustainability. This includes the use of native plants, xeriscaping, and sustainable materials.

Technology Integration: Landscaping services are increasingly using technology, such as drone surveying and landscape management software, to optimize designs and maintenance.

Focus on Outdoor Spaces: With the rise of remote work, businesses are investing in outdoor spaces that promote employee well-being, including gardens, relaxation areas, and recreational spaces.

Conclusion

In South Auckland, investing in professional landscaping services and effective erosion control measures like silt fences is essential for commercial properties. These services not only enhance aesthetics and functionality but also contribute to environmental sustainability. By prioritizing these aspects, businesses can create attractive outdoor spaces that resonate with customers and contribute positively to the community.

[ecolawnartificialgrass]

Why Artificial Grass Is a Popular Choice for NZ Homeowners

As a homeowner in New Zealand, I've often found myself contemplating the best ways to create an inviting and beautiful outdoor space without spending countless hours on maintenance. Recently, I discovered the growing popularity of artificial grass, and I couldn't help but wonder what makes it such a compelling choice for many Kiwi homeowners. After diving into the topic, I found numerous benefits that make artificial grass an appealing option across our stunning landscapes.

The Allure of Low Maintenance

One of the primary reasons artificial grass is gaining traction in New Zealand is its incredibly low maintenance requirements. Unlike natural grass, which demands regular mowing, watering, and fertilising, artificial grass offers a lush, green appearance year-round with minimal effort. This means more time for family activities, gardening, or simply enjoying the great outdoors without the constant worry of upkeep.

Cost-Effectiveness Over Time

While the initial investment in artificial grass installation may seem steep, many homeowners find that it pays off in the long run. The reduction in water bills—especially in regions where droughts can occur—can lead to significant savings. Additionally, with no need for fertilisers or pesticides, families can enjoy a beautiful lawn without the recurring costs associated with natural grass maintenance. The longevity of artificial grass, often lasting 15-20 years with proper care, further solidifies its position as a cost-effective solution.

A Green Choice for the Environment

Many homeowners are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact, and artificial grass aligns well with eco-friendly values. The use of artificial grass can conserve water and reduce the need for harmful chemicals that might leach into our soil and waterways. In a country renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, opting for artificial grass can contribute to preserving New Zealand's beauty for future generations.

Perfect for Diverse Climates

New Zealand's climate varies significantly from the North Island to the South Island, but artificial grass is designed to thrive in a variety of conditions. Whether you're dealing with the warmth of Auckland or the cooler temperatures of Christchurch, artificial grass maintains its vibrancy and usability regardless of the season. This adaptability makes it a versatile choice for homeowners seeking a lawn that looks great all year long.

Enhancing Outdoor Spaces

Artificial grass is not only practical but can also transform outdoor spaces into stunning landscapes. With the variety of styles, colours, and textures available, it allows homeowners to customise their lawns to fit their aesthetic preferences. From backyard retreats to front lawns that create curb appeal, artificial grass can enhance any property, making it a top choice for those looking to improve their home's value.

Safety and Durability

For families with children or pets, artificial grass offers a safe and durable solution. Unlike natural grass, which can become muddy and slippery during wet weather, artificial grass remains usable and safe year-round. It also resists wear and tear from foot traffic, ensuring that your lawn stays pristine no matter how active your family may be.

Conclusion: Embracing the Benefits of Artificial Grass

In conclusion, the reasons behind the rising popularity of artificial grass among New Zealand homeowners are multifaceted. From low maintenance and long-term cost savings to environmental benefits and aesthetic appeal, artificial grass is a viable option for those seeking a practical and beautiful outdoor space. As I consider the possibilities for my own garden, I'm convinced that artificial grass could be the perfect solution for a lush, green lawn that requires minimal upkeep.

If you're interested in exploring this further, I recommend looking into how artificial grass can fit your specific needs and preferences. With the right information and careful planning, you too can enjoy the many benefits that artificial grass has to offer.

[lucas-sprinklers]

Discover the Best Sprinkler System Installation Companies Near You - Lucas Irrigation LLC

Lucas Irrigation LLC excels as the sprinkler system installation company near you in Northville, Salem, Farmington, Novi, Brighton, Van Buren, Plymouth, Canton, Westland, Belleville, South Lyon, New Hudson, Livonia, Ann Arbor, Superior Township, Ypsilanti, Taylor, and more. Elevate your landscape with our expert installations. When it comes to maintaining a lush, vibrant landscape, the importance of a reliable sprinkler system cannot be overstated. If you're searching for trustworthy sprinkler system installation companies near me, your search ends with Lucas Irrigation LLC. Based in Papakura, Auckland, we are dedicated to providing top-notch sprinkler installation services across a wide range of areas, ensuring your landscape remains beautiful and healthy.

Why Choose Lucas Irrigation LLC?

1. Expertise and Experience 🌟

Lucas Irrigation LLC has years of experience in the irrigation industry. Our team of skilled professionals understands the intricacies of designing and installing sprinkler systems that cater to your specific landscape needs. With a deep understanding of various soil types, plant requirements, and climate conditions, we ensure that your sprinkler system is perfectly tailored to your property.

2. Customized Solutions 🌿

Every landscape is unique, and so are its irrigation needs. At Lucas Irrigation LLC, we offer customized sprinkler system solutions that fit the specific requirements of your garden or lawn. Whether you have a small residential yard or a large commercial property, we design systems that ensure optimal water distribution and coverage.

3. High-Quality Products 💧

Quality is at the heart of what we do. We source our sprinkler system components from reputable manufacturers to guarantee durability, efficiency, and longevity. This commitment to using only the best products ensures that your sprinkler system will perform flawlessly for years to come.

4. Comprehensive Services 🛠️

Lucas Irrigation LLC provides a complete range of services, from initial consultation and design to installation and maintenance. We handle every aspect of your irrigation needs, so you can enjoy a hassle-free experience from start to finish.

Areas We Serve

We are proud to offer our services in numerous locations, including Northville, Salem, Farmington, Novi, Brighton, Van Buren, Plymouth, Canton, Westland, Belleville, South Lyon, New Hudson, Livonia, Ann Arbor, Superior Township, Ypsilanti, Taylor, and surrounding areas. No matter where you are, Lucas Irrigation LLC is the sprinkler system installation company near me that you can trust.

The Benefits of Professional Sprinkler System Installation

1. Water Efficiency 🌊

A professionally installed sprinkler system ensures efficient water usage, minimizing waste and lowering your water bills. Our systems are designed to deliver the right amount of water to each area of your landscape, promoting healthy growth while conserving resources.

2. Convenience ⏰

Automated sprinkler systems take the guesswork out of lawn care. With programmable timers and sensors, your system will water your landscape at the optimal times, allowing you to focus on other important tasks.

3. Enhanced Curb Appeal 🌷

A well-irrigated landscape looks lush, green, and inviting. With a professionally installed sprinkler system, you can achieve and maintain a beautiful lawn that enhances the overall curb appeal of your property.

4. Increased Property Value 🏡

Investing in a quality sprinkler system can significantly boost your property's value. Prospective buyers often view a well-maintained landscape as a major selling point, making your home more attractive on the market.

Our Installation Process

1. Consultation and Assessment 📝

Our process begins with a thorough consultation and assessment of your property. We take the time to understand your landscape's unique needs and discuss your goals for the irrigation system.

2. Customized Design 🎨

Based on the assessment, we create a customized sprinkler system design that ensures optimal coverage and efficiency. Our designs take into account factors such as soil type, plant types, and sun exposure to create a system tailored to your landscape.

3. Professional Installation 🛠️

Our skilled technicians handle the installation with precision and care. We use the latest tools and techniques to install your system efficiently and effectively, ensuring minimal disruption to your property.

4. System Testing and Adjustments ✅

Once installed, we thoroughly test the system to ensure it functions correctly. We make any necessary adjustments to guarantee optimal performance and water distribution.

5. Ongoing Maintenance and Support 🔧

Lucas Irrigation LLC offers ongoing maintenance services to keep your sprinkler system in top condition. From seasonal adjustments to repairs, we provide the support you need to ensure your system continues to operate efficiently.

Contact Us

Ready to transform your landscape with a professional sprinkler system installation? Contact https://lucassprinklers.com/sprinkler-installation/ today! We're the sprinkler system installation company near me that you can rely on for exceptional service and results.

Address: Papakura, Auckland, NEW ZEALAND 2580

Phone: +64 21 490 672

Email: info@lunarembassy.nz

Facebook: Lucas Irrigation

Available Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (NZ time)

Don't wait any longer to elevate your landscape. Reach out to Lucas Irrigation LLC today and discover the difference a professional sprinkler system can make! 🌼🚿

[mikeross-07]

Handyman South Auckland ||

Experts at Mike Ross have over 5 years experience in handyman and garden services across South auckland, New Zealand. They are just a phone call away from You. ||

[jmlandscapes1]

Landscape Design South Auckland

J M Landscapes is an award-winning multi-dynamic company with over 35 years of experience in landscape design and construction. Our portfolio covers residential gardens, lifestyle blocks, courtyard gardens, and unique sites.

Jules Moore, owner and director of JM Landscapes is proud to have created an award winning landscaping company, offering everything you require for landscaping to enhance your living spaces in Auckland. Regardless of whether you have a life style block, home or business, we can create inspiring landscape designs and construction, including lighting and irrigation.

Our landscape architects and landscape designers embrace a wide range of styles from formal and classical garden design, to contemporary and subtropical, and New Zealand native. For More Details Visit :- https://www.jmlandscapes.co.nz/

[escapades-planetaires]

High Sydney Tower Eye

Situé dans le centre de Sydney (Central Sydney), dans le quartier de la City (ou Central Business District - CBD), la Sydney Tower, également appelée Centrepoint Tower, AMP Tower, ou encore Westfield Tower, est le plus haut édifice de la ville (309 m avec la flèche). 

Sydney Tower Eye est le nom de la plateforme d’observation située 250 mètres au-dessus des rues de la capitale de la Nouvelle-Galles du Sud (New South Wales).

Photos Nathalie Donadille, mars 2010

De cette plateforme d’observation, on a un panorama à 360 degrés sur Sydney et ses environs. On peut même apercevoir, par beau temps, les Blue Mountains qui se trouvent à 80 kilomètres au nord-ouest de la ville.

Mais c’est surtout la vue plongeante sur les innombrables baies entourant Port Jackson* (ou Sydney Harbour) qui est impressionnante !  

* Plus communément appelé Baie de Sydney.

A l’ouest, le regard tombe sur Darling Harbour (au centre) qui s’étend autour de Cockle Bay.

A droite du pont piéton de Pyrmont Bridge, on peut voir deux bâtiments se faisant face de chaque côté du port : au premier plan, le SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium (ou Sydney Aquarium) et sur la rive opposée, l’Australian National Maritime Museum.   

Derrière Darling Harbour se déploie le quartier de Pyrmont avec à droite, Johnstons Bay, et de l’autre côté, Blackwattle Bay que franchit l’Anzac Bridge pour atteindre Rozelle et sa baie.  

Vers le nord, on aperçoit bien sûr le Harbour Bridge, et au-delà, Lower North Shore .

Au pied du pont se trouvent, à droite, The Rocks, le quartier historique, et à gauche, Dawes Point, caché par les tours, puis Millers Point en face de Goat Island. Enfin, au bord de la baie, en redescendant, c’est le quartier de Barangaroo avec sur la rive opposée, celui d’East Balmain.

Au nord-est, le Sydney Opera House apparait entre les buildings de la City, parmi lesquels, le Citygroup Center (243 m de haut) à gauche, et au centre, avec sa structure métallique triangulaire, le Deutsche Bank Place (240 m). 

Dans le fond de Farm Cove, la crique en forme de fer à cheval qui se termine par Mrs Macquaries Point, s’étendent les Royal Botanic Gardens entourés par The Domain*. 

Sur la droite, en lisière des arbres du domaine, on distingue l’Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool, une piscine publique située sur l’eau en bordure de la baie (suivante) de Woolloomooloo, face à la base navale de la Royal Australian Navy (RAN) de Garden Island dans le quartier de Potts Point.

* The Domain est un immense parc animé l’été par ses festivals et ses concerts. Il a été inauguré en 1816, en même temps que les jardins royaux, par le général Lachlan Macquarie, gouverneur de Nouvelle-Galles du Sud de 1810 à 1821.

En contrebas, Saint James Road passe entre Saint James Church, une église anglicane datant de 1824, et Hyde Park North.

Au croisement avec Macquarie Street, on peut voir Hyde Park Barracks. Cette caserne, Patrimoine mondial de l'UNESCO, qui a été construite en 1817 pour loger des détenus, a ensuite abrité des femmes immigrés, avant de devenir un tribunal puis des bureaux gouvernementaux. C’est aujourd’hui un musée dédié à cette histoire.

Vers l’ouest, le regard se porte d’abord sur le nord de Hyde Park. C’est le plus ancien parc d’Australie (1810), aménagé selon le modèle des espaces verts anglais. Sa célèbre Archibald Fountain a été créée en 1932, au milieu de Birubi Circle, par le sculpteur français François Sicard (1862-1934) dans le style Art Déco. De forme hexagonale, elle mesure 18 mètres de diamètre. 

Elle a été érigée pour commémorer l'alliance entre la France et l’Australie lors de la Première Guerre mondiale selon la volonté et grâce à un legs testamentaire de J.F. (Jules François) Archibald (1856-1919), journaliste et cofondateur de l’hebdomadaire The Bulletin en 1880 et qui a paru jusqu’en 2008.

A gauche, on reconnait Hyde Park Barracks et en face, Saint Mary’s Cathedral*. Derrière celle-ci débute The Domain qui se prolonge jusqu’à Farm Cove.

Au second plan, se trouve le quartier de Woolloomooloo avec son port dans la baie de même nom et le Finger Wharf ou Woolloomooloo Wharf, le plus long quai à pans de bois au monde, terminé en 1815.  

Se succèdent ensuite, les quartiers de Potts Point et d’Elizabeth Bay, puis Darling Point entre Ketlie Bay et celle de Diendagulla, en face de Clark Island. Il y a enfin, Point Piper, Rose Bay et Vaucluse, qui referme Port Jackson. La deuxième ile est Shark Island.

Dans le fond à droite se trouve la célèbre plage de Bondi Beach.

* La cathédrale catholique de Sydney a pour origine l’église Sainte-Marie construite de 1821 à 1833 et élevée au statut de cathédrale en 1835. Mais un incendie l’a détruite en 1865. Le monument actuel de style néo-gothique qui l’a remplacée a été élevé entre 1868 et 1928.

Si notre objectif s’était tourné vers le sud, on aurait vu le Sydney Cricket Ground et l’Allianz Stadium (ou Sydney Football Stadium) dans lequel se jouent également les matchs de rugby et qui s’appelait à l’origine Aussie Stadium.

Plus loin, on aurait aussi aperçu l’aéroport de Sydney (Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport). Il porte le nom d’un pilote pionnier de l’aviation, né à Brisbane en 1897, Sir Charles Kingsford Smith. Surnommé Smithy, il a disparu en mer au large de la Birmanie lors d’un vol entre l’Angleterre et l’Australie en 1935.

Commencée au tout début des années 1970, la construction de la Sydney Tower s’est terminée en 1981.

Jusqu’en 2005, la tour, qui est conçue pour résister aux séismes et aux vents violents, a été le plus haut édifice d’Australie. Mais elle a été dépassée depuis par la Q1 Tower de Gold Coast dans l’état voisin du Queensland, haute de 323 mètres. Elle est donc maintenant au troisième rang après la Sky Tower d’Auckland (328m) bien que la plateforme d’observation de cette dernière ne soit qu’à 186 mètres du sol.

Chacun des 3 ascenseurs met 40 secondes pour atteindre l'étage panoramique.

Précédemment : Signalisation australienne

[greenearth1]

Fencing Companies South Auckland

My name is Darius Karani and I run Green Earth Landscape and Garden Maintenance. My passion is the outdoors and I have over 30 years’ experience in this field.

We provide you with stunning landscape ideas right from concept to garden maintenance. With an in-depth knowledge our mission is to create and maintain beautiful outdoor spaces that enrich the lives of our clients, enhance the natural beauty of our surroundings, and conserve the resources of our planet.

Our goal is to deliver a high level of service with exceptional value. We want to work together with you designing your outdoor space. With the help of our knowledgeable team we keep you informed and involved throughout the process. We look forward to seeing you smile as you enjoy your new outdoor paradise. For More Details Visit :- https://greenearthnz.com/

[gralli-journey]

New Zealand to South America!

We are so sorry it has been over 4 months since our last update! Here is a video we made of our whole 5 months in New Zealand: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x94vegd5jFQ&feature=youtu.be

Our final 6 weeks in New Zealand were wonderful. We continued exploring the North Island and got to spend 3 weeks volunteering with 2 different families. 

In exchange for 2 hours a day of manual labor (landscaping, construction, gardening exct) we got to stay in one family’s cottage overlooking the Tasman Sea.

The family ran a surf school and blow-carting business so near the end of our time when the weather let up we were able to surf and cart a bit!

From there we spent a week with the kindest family that operate a kayaking business on the coast. We shared all of our meals with them, often sitting around the dinner table for hours sharing meaningful discussion. The morning would always start by moving the cows around and shoveling their poop, then usually some painting and other maintenance around the house. In addition to sharing meals with us, they shared their bikes, kayaks, paddleboards and their social lives. We played soccer with their league, joined them at the pub, went to dinner with their friends and even attended a bridge card game lesson!

After that week of rest and beautiful cultural emersion, we met my sister Victoria and her friend Holly in Auckland and handed off our van Nelly off to them! It was sad to say bye to Nelly, but so good to see Victoria and Holly take her. The next day Alli’s mom and dad (Roger and Karen) and youngest brother (CJ) flew in and rented out a mansion on wheels, which we affectionately named Taj as in Taj Mahal. We moved out of Nelly and into Taj and then all of us including Victoria and Holly road tripped around.

We all headed up north to the tropical part of New Zealand where we were blessed with wonderful weather. We scored amazing free camping in our Nelly and the Taj right on the beach where we kayaked and played in the waves and then the next night headed to a hut that we had all to our selves!

After a few days we parted ways with Victoria and Holly to meet back up with them later, that way we got alone time with both our families. With the Gilberts we continued on in Taj hitting the natural glow worm caves, and hot water beach, both of which were incredible. Hot water beach was especially magical, we arrived for sunset at low tied and began digging a big hole in the sand. Before long we had a deep pool that was filled by a thermal spring flowing under the sand! CJ and I figured out a rhythm of playing in the ocean waves for a few minutes, getting cold and then warming back up in the hot pool and repeating on and on. What an evening.

We stayed with the Gilberts for 10 nights, 8 in the Taj and 2 in huts. We shared the essence of our New Zealand travels with them and had an wonderful and bonding experience.

We got to spend our last 6 days in New Zealand with Victoria and Holly. We rented a small campervan and toured around with them exploring wine country, more hot springs, and one final New Zealand Hut. We also went ahead and sold Nelly so that Victoria and Holly wouldn’t have to deal with that, they then rented a small campervan for the last 3 weeks of their travels and it all worked out fine. We lost about $1000 on Nelly but she was a good van, a great home and a true companion for our 5 months of travel.

At the end of our time in New Zealand we spent an average of just $65/day, a bit over our target of $50/day but still under $10k for the both of us for 5 months. Not bad considering that factors in health insurance, losses on the car, phone bills and so on. We are so happy with the experiences and memories we have. If you ever want to hear about how to travel cheaply and simply, we would love to share out travel philosophies and experiences with you. 

We left New Zealand on June 30th. Honestly, in the last 3 and a half months we have been many different places. The focus for us after New Zealand, was to connect with friends and family around the US and Canada. To commemorate our 5 months of living in a van, we did spend two weeks in Bali snorkeling, scuba diving, eating out and exploring the tropical island on a scooter.

Our transition back into the US started very slowly, as we spent two weeks in Hawaii with the Garvins for family vacation! We spent a lot of time snorkeling, swimming, relaxing and talking with one another. It was beautiful to spend quality time with family we hadn’t seen since Christmas. 

After Hawaii we started a month long road trip up the west coast. We got to see and connect with many of Alli’s college friends in Oregon, on the way to Vancouver for Alli’s cousin Nehamiah’s wedding! Connecting with people who know us deeply was something we longed for after our solo time in New Zealand. After the family focused wedding, we traveled with two of Alli’s brothers, Josh and Bryan, over to Calgary Alberta for a camping trip with the Gilbert’s high school friends.

Once we reconnected with everyone in Canada, we made a trip to Seattle to see Victoria. It was lovely to spend quality time with Victoria in her world, as well as connect with other friends in the area. Once we were in Seattle, we wanted to look around the west coast for potential places to settle once the year of traveling is over. We visited places like Spokane, Boise, Eugene, and Bend, looking for a smaller city to grow roots. We didn’t find a place that drew us in at this time, so we decided to spend the month of September in Redwood City California with my parents. Basing ourselves in Redwood City was intentional, to connect more with the Garvins, as well as figure out if we wanted to keep traveling or settle down soon. After resting, spending time in Yosemite, San Louis Obpsio, and Smith Rock Oregon, we decided we had enough energy to travel to South America before the year is over!

On Oct 18th, we will be heading to La Paz, Bolivia to spend a month volunteering and  living with a host family. I will primarily volunteer with an organization that teaches locals how to farm on their property (urban farming). November is their spring so I’ll be planting and maintaining the community garden and hopefully helping with some irrigation and construction projects.

Alli will be focusing her time helping out at a day center for women in the sex industry, getting to know the women, and even leading workshops on woman’s health! I will also help out there but with more of a focus on building maintenance. Alli will help out with the urban farming a little bit, as there is a vibrant local and international staff that we are excited to meet.

After Bolivia, we will head down south, VERY south, to Chilean Patagonia where we will be for around 3 weeks. We plan on lots of backpacking and camping, including a 10 day trip in the Torres Del Paine national park. Patagonia is known for its stunning and untouched natural beauty, Alli and I have dreamed of visiting for years and we are quite excited to finally go.

When we return home in early December, we aren’t sure what’s next! There are amazing job opportunities for us in the Seattle and San Francisco area, but we are also looking at some smaller towns. We’ll keep you posted!

Love,

Gralli

[vistalandcare]

Transform Your Outdoor Space with Professional Landscaping Services in South Auckland

A beautiful, well-maintained landscape not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your property but also increases its value. Whether you're a homeowner looking to revamp your backyard or a business owner seeking to create a welcoming environment for customers, professional landscaping services can make a world of difference. In this article, we’ll explore how expert landscapers in South Auckland can elevate your outdoor spaces and the importance of silt fence installation NZ for proper sediment control.

Why Choose Professional Landscaping Services South Auckland?

If you’re in South Auckland, finding the right landscaping service is key to transforming your outdoor areas. Expert landscapers know how to create sustainable, functional, and stunning environments that suit your lifestyle. Whether it's lawn care, garden design, or complex hardscaping projects, professional landscaping services South Auckland can tailor solutions that meet your specific needs.

Some of the services offered include:

Garden design and installation

Lawn care and maintenance

Hardscape installations like patios and walkways

Plant selection and planting services

The key benefit of hiring professionals is their understanding of the local climate, soil conditions, and plant species that thrive in the region. This ensures that your landscaping will not only look good but also last for years to come.

The Importance of Silt Fence Installation NZ

When working on a landscaping project, especially large-scale ones, it's crucial to think about erosion and sediment control. This is where silt fence installation NZ comes into play. A silt fence is a temporary sediment control device used on construction sites or areas disturbed by land development to prevent soil from washing into waterways during rainfall.

Proper silt fence installation NZ helps:

Prevent soil erosion

Protect local waterways from sediment pollution

Ensure compliance with environmental regulations

Preserve the surrounding landscape

For any construction or major landscaping work, it’s essential to have the right erosion control measures in place. Hiring experts who specialize in silt fence installation NZ guarantees that the job is done effectively and in compliance with local standards.

Enhance Your Home with Residential Landscape Services

If you're looking to create a personal oasis right in your backyard, professional residential landscape services can turn your vision into reality. From customized garden designs to water features, lighting installations, and seasonal plantings, these services offer a variety of options to suit your taste and budget.

Residential landscape services often include:

Customized garden and patio designs

Lawn and garden care

Installation of water features, like ponds or fountains

Outdoor lighting solutions

Tree and shrub planting

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Conclusion

Transforming your outdoor space is an investment that offers both aesthetic and functional rewards. From hiring expert landscaping services South Auckland to ensuring proper erosion control with silt fence installation NZ and enhancing your home with residential landscape services, professional landscaping can dramatically elevate your property’s appeal.

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Landscape Contractors Auckland

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Research

Birdlife has increased in public spaces, people in Cuba mall have seen fantails flying around in the street. Ternouth believes the birds became more vocal because they were not contending with any traffic noise, and we could also hear them more clearly. Ecologist Margaret Stanley stated “the birds would be enjoying the decrease in noise, light and air pollution - along with slightly messier public parks, where maintenance had been stopped.” Untidy parks provided the birds with more insects to eat, which they were able to access because there was a lack of human activity. As some regions were going through a drought they were looking for food in peoples gardens, some would be messy as they weren't gardeners or would be very clean and tidy because they now had time to garden.

Furthermore, as stated by Stanley “Vegetation maintenance along roadsides, in parks, golf courses and on school grounds is not an essential service and so ecologists are looking forward to seeing some ‘wildness’ in the city the further lockdown goes on. Longer lawns lead to flowers for pollinators, ‘untidy’ leaves and twigs on the ground and untrimmed hedges and trees provide shelter and food resources for insects, all providing a feast for our insectivorous birds.”

A positive consequence that has come from Covid 19 is that some people have realised the importance of green spaces in their environments, whether it be at home, work or in town. People are appreciating their renewed connection to spaces with vegetation and as a result the increase of birds while there was less human activity. So it is possible that in the future there will hopefully be more access to nature in urban spaces. But I do question when we do go back to normal will the birds be pushed back from the city? Personally I have noticed since Level 2 I have seen a major decrease in the amount of birds in our backyard.

Did we have more time to observe birds or was there actually an increase? Have there always been this many birds in my backyard everyday? Did I just have time to sit and observe? In agreement with retired ornithologist Paul Sagar ''It could be a combination of people looking more and a quieter environment,''. I think people had more time to observe and because of the lowered human activity so the birds weren't as disturbed.

One of the most common and widely spread native birds in New Zealand is the Fantail. Fantail has many different names in Maori, about 20-30 different ones. The most common ones are pīwakawaka, tīwakawaka and tīrairak. They are very energetic and friendly birds, known for flying and dancing around people only 1-2 metres away from them. Pīwakawaka are so fascinating because they get very close to people without shying away unlike any other species of birds. They are also well known for their “cheet cheet” call.

Pīwakawaka are very active birds, always restless and on the move, “A fidgety person is described as a fantail’s tail, because of the bird’s restless movements.” as Keane-Tuala says. Throughout lockdown during levels 3 and 4 my bubble contained my mum, sister and I, we noticed that there were a lot of pīwakawaka flying around in the backyard. We also encountered one fly into the house through an opened window and it flew around the room and then ended up flying around the upstairs area of our house. It was such a bizarre experience as we hadn't seen many pīwakawaka in our yard before and then there was one adventurous enough to fly through a window. Another experience I had was sitting outside in the sun one afternoon and a fantail flew around me very close for about one minute. It looked like it was searching for food in the garden beside me and in the grape vine but it was not bothered by the sight of humans. Another factor to take into consideration is that cats could have been locked inside more, so they weren't roaming around peoples backyards scaring off the birds.

While researching about the increase of birdlife during quarantine I found that people had very similar experiences. There were a couple of other instances in Timaru where people noticed more birdlife in their bubble. A family saw a Tui in their garden, the first they have noticed in 20 years. Marie Bisset had seen fantails in her garden but one day it came into her house. She claimed ''It was not stressed, just curious,'' which I can relate to because I experienced it the same way. Interestingly, I found that the popularity of the New Zealand Birds online website had increased by 42% during quarantine with over 100,000 visits. This shows that people in NZ we noticing more birds and more curious to find out more about them.

During levels 3 and 4 in my bubble I really noticed that there was a considerable decrease of cars on the road, as everyone but essential workers couldn’t work or travel anywhere. I believe this had a positive impact on our environment as there was less car pollution in our air. We saw an example of this in New Zealand in Auckland. Niwa air quality scientist, Dr Ian Longley said “At the Takapuna monitoring site, close to the Northern Motorway, nitrogen oxide levels at the end of last week were about a third lower than that normally seen during the morning rush hour. For the remaining daylight hours they were reduced by up to 80 per cent." She also explains that nitrogen oxide is found in pollutants from vehicle exhausts, which link to many health impacts such as asthma. There is also likely to be less pollution around commercial areas because office buildings were closed so there were less cars on the road. This is a huge benefit for birds because according to Ashby-Coventry birds are more at risk from lung damage from air pollution than people are.

By combining two aspects of my bubble, the increase of birds and decrease of cars and air pollution I started to think how biodiversity is affected by climate change. An article from the Ministry for the Environment described some impacts climate change will have on biodiversity in the future. The increase of temperatures will change habitats, making greater risk of localised extinction. It will however favour conditions for other species, but also cause a spread of disease and pests affecting both fauna and flora. Increasing droughts in summer will put pressure on dry lowland forests. With potential earlier springs and longer frost-free seasons, it could easily affect the timing of flowering, health of plants and birds egg laying. We are shown how if the environment is changing overtime it will affect biodiversity.

Sources:

Ternouth, Louise. “Increase in bird life during lockdown may be lost once people return.” RNZ, 9 May 2020, www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/416264/increase-in-bird-life-during-lockdown-may-be-lost-once-people-return. Accessed 3 June 2020.

Doyle, Katie. “NZ's native birds thrive under Covid-19 lockdown.” RNZ, 14 April 2020, www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/414232/nz-s-native-birds-thrive-under-covid-19-lockdown. Accessed 3 June 2020.

Ashby-Coventry, Esther. “Sightings of native birds increase in South Canterbury under lockdown.” Stuff, May 06 2020, www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/121411925/sightings-of-native-birds-increase-in-south-canterbury-under-lockdown. Accessed 3 June 2020.

Stanley, Margaret. “Why the birds are back - and how to keep them here.” Newsroom, 13 April 2020, www.newsroom.co.nz/ideasroom/2020/04/13/1122849/why-the-birds-are-back-and-how-to-keep-them?fbclid=IwAR2ySNsPd3HICkfiYf94XM58HNjMxiczxKR5H-QpyzpMYfYzh-GXDIqxXrE. Accessed 3 June 2020.

“Coronavirus Covid-19: Dramatic improvement in Auckland air quality.” NZ Herald, 31 March 2020, www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12321380. Accessed 3 June 2020.

“Likely Climate Change Impacts in New Zealand.” Ministry for the Environment, 22 March 2019, www.mfe.govt.nz/climate-change/likely-impacts-of-climate-change/likely-climate-change-impacts-nz. Accessed 4 June 2020.

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Landscapers South Auckland

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Is Water Shedding Next

We are all too familiar with load shedding and the electricity crisis. Although a nuisance to both industry and private users we have more or less come to accept the inevitability that this will remain a part of our life. But will we be as complacent when it comes to water cuts? Are we heading in the same direction when considering water supply? Is water shedding inevitable and a thing of the near future? Unlike electricity, water security is far more serious from a livelihood, health and socio-economic development point of view. And unlike electricity there is no substitute for water.

Load shedding is predominantly about decaying infrastructure and lack of investment in generating electricity. It is not unreasonable to say that water infrastructure is going pretty much the same route.  At strategic level there has been a lot of planning to ensure that South Africa has sufficient water. If it means pumping and piping it to the distribution point to areas that have shortages, it is going to happen. But that is where it stops! At municipal level the infrastructure has been neglected to such an extent that 40% off all water supplied to the Metro’s is being lost due to leaks and illegal use. Listen to the news and you frequently hear how smaller towns have run out of water! Bigger city sections are left without water for hours and even days because of burst pipes. Raw sewerage is flowing into rivers that flow to dams, where cities and town get their water from! Small Water Drilling Machine South Africa

The overall total for non-revenue water could, in fact, reach tens of billions per year. These losses must be addressed. But this is not the only challenge facing the sector. We are heading toward a crisis in terms of water treatment plant operation, maintenance and upgrades. In the water sector, the resource, treatment and distribution components are equally important — if one area is neglected, the entire system is impacted. Much of South Africa’s water infrastructure is in a dilapidated state. The worst off are the treatment plants — especially those for wastewater treatment. This is a source of contamination of the rivers and complicates the overall water treatment processes.

Serious problems have developed with the asbestos and cement water pipes that were laid in the 1940s. Water has started to erode the cement in the pipes. This leads to small municipalities losing, on average, 72.5% of the water pumped, according to a recent survey published by government. An average of 36.8% (1.58 billion cubic metres) of SA’s water pumped by municipalities is lost. This is equivalent to the yearly supply of Rand Water, SA’s largest water utility. Pipes generally have a lifespan of 50 years. There has been very little replacement being done in smaller municipalities; and in Johannesburg, there’s a 10-year backlog.

Water shortages affect every facet of our society. Recently most parts of Grahamstown in the Eastern Cape were without water and Rhodes University was at the point of closing down due to health problems. A broken dam pump, which is more that 60 years old, cut off the running water to them.  In 2013 towns such as Kimberly, Krugersdorp, Rustenburg, Potchefstroom and Bloemfontein struggled with water shortages. The ongoing protests for service delivery that are sweeping across our country are a testimony to the dire conditions of our water supply. The problem has escalated to civil unrest, which often turns violent and requires police intervention.

On the 15th September 2014 several suburbs in Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni experienced water cuts. The situation happened when a power outage at the Eikenhof pumping station meant water could not be pumped into reservoir. It became difficult for the water levels to stabilise during periods of high demand. This resulted in Rand Water being unable to pump water to some of our reservoirs, supplying mainly western and south of Johannesburg, parts of the west rand and Ekurhuleni. The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality dispatched roving water tankers to all areas experiencing low water pressure and water cuts. Our natural assumption would be to ask why are there no backup generators to keep the water flowing. The logical answer is that there are no funds to finance this strategic water point.

The demand for JoJo tanks has exploded in the past five years as municipality services begin to breakdown. JoJo has now set up eight factories across South Africa to meet the demand. Most municipalities simply do not have the technical knowledge to maintain the infrastructure. Of the 230 municipalities 79 have no civil engineers or technicians and only 45 have civil engineers. There are more civil engineers serving the zoo infrastructure in Auckland, New Zealand than 86% of South African municipalities according to Allyson Lawless, a former president of the SA Institute of Civil Engineering (Saice) and the author of Numbers and Needs – Addressing Imbalances in the Civil Engineering Profession.

The skills crisis is blamed on the massive exodus of municipal engineers over the past 20 years. Out of every seven engineers who worked for municipalities in the 1980s, only one remained, according to Dr Chris Herold, an engineer and owner of Umfula Wempilo Consulting. This was partly due to frustration and disillusionment among municipal engineers over political appointments in management positions with supervision over technical functions. Many engineers emigrated, and the private sector also lured municipal engineers away with big salaries. Fewer and fewer technicians have been trained.

Government has recently launched a strategic integration project specifically to address these delays, accelerate water licenses and build programmes, as well as put better sanitation in place. But about R50 billion must still be found to finance the project, and there are also concerns about whether government has the necessary expertise to carry out its plans. In the water affairs department, where water infrastructure is planned, there are only seven engineers among the 48 senior managers. In May 2013, only 78 of the 280 civil engineering posts in the department were filled, and about 47% of the chief engineers will retire over the next five years, according to figures from Saice.

The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development has said South Africa will experience “great water stress” in the next 15 years, especially in inland cities. South Africa only gets an average of about 520mm of rain each year, compared with 920mm in Malawi, 1 060mm in Kenya and 2 170mm in India.

We can no longer remain in denial. Water shedding is an inevitable reality and we need to prepare for the worst. On the larger scale of things you can implement systems that will reduce your water footprint and demand on the water infrastructure. You can install water saving shower heads, use cistern devices, convert your garden into an indigenous garden, take shorter showers and sweep your drive way instead of washing it down. Install a rain water harvesting system that collects water into tanks during the rainy season. Conserving water also means that you conserve electricity as it takes thousands of megawatts of electricity to bring water from the Lesotho highlands to Johannesburg and surrounding cities and towns.

Ideally though, you would like to own your own water supply system. You would like to have that peace of mind that you will always have water on tap and you no longer need to rely on municipal water. You can also determine the quality of the water you drink. Drilling a borehole is one way of achieving this. A borehole will not only provide water for your garden but also for household use. A borehole is an investment for the future. It adds to the value of your home. Considering current water tariffs your borehole can pay for itself within 3 – 4 years, not taking into account tariff escalations and the fact that there are also sewage charges based on the amount of water that you use. Using a borehole reduces all these costs. It also reduces your impact on the water infrastructure and the energy infrastructure. Not only will you reduce your water footprint but you will also go a long way to reducing your carbon footprint. Borehole Drilling Companies Johannesburg

The Reserve Bank has warned of austerity measure in 2017. This will mean that funding for an already stressed water and electricity system will be compromised. Less money will be spent on these services while demand will rise exponentially as these measures will lead to greater unemployment and poverty.

The water crisis is not only limited to South Africa. It stretches across the globe. Often it is the underlying cause of wars and conflict particularly in the Middle East. As populations grow, so does the demand for water and sanitation. Millions of people have no access to clean water and sanitation. In developing countries the leading cause of death in children below the age of five is directly attributed to lack of access to clean water and sanitation. In many rural arrears in South Africa and squatter camps the situation is as dire. We can no longer depend on a reliable water supply. We need to act now, reduce our demand on the water infrastructure and secure our water supply.