A vibrant Riwaka garden is opening to the public every weekend until the end of March, raising money for the Tapawera Volunteer Fire Brigade as it fundraises for a new rescue ute.
Geraldine Carleton has lived at her Umukuri Road property for four years, pouring her green thumb into transforming the half-acre section into a flourishing wonderland.
She opened her garden gates in late January and estimates about 50 people have visited so far, each offering whatever koha they can.
Geraldine describes her property as “a cottage garden on steroids”. The beds are full to bursting, offering something for everyone. Right now, the lilies are just finishing and the begonia house is in full bloom, with 160 plants showing off their seasonal splendour. Don’t ask her favourite variety though – it changes every day, she laughs.
The property also features picturesque bridges, a gnome grotto and a large vegetable garden, with flowers and foliage in every nook and cranny.
“Everything is looking very nice,” Geraldine says.
She is resisting the temptation to tally the donations and will wait until the end of March before passing the final amount on to the Tapawera Volunteer Fire Brigade.
Geraldine’s garden, at 27 Umukuri Road, is open from 10am to 4pm every Saturday and Sunday until 29 March. Parking is signposted.
