When Jill and Richard first arrived at Fishermans Bay, they were a budding couple with two families, starting a journey in another place. Verve had the privilege of hearing their remarkable story firsthand…
Words & Photography — Jill Simpson
The surroundings were untamed yet captivating, with a weathered cottage dating back almost a century. Sharing it with family and friends, we forged precious memories exploring the sprawling farmland and picturesque bays during long summer days.
Our intention was to make this rugged terrain our permanent abode. In 2005, we embarked on a transformation, redesigning the house and adding a new extension to craft the cozy haven we now call home. While a small patch of garden graced the immediate surroundings, much of it was enveloped by the new construction, leaving me with a blank canvas to cautiously cultivate.
Initially, there were no grand plans for an expansive garden, despite my background in designing landscapes for others. Our focus was on tending to the farm and preserving the natural beauty of the two bays below, where we worked tirelessly to reclaim land from the grasp of invasive gorse.
However, with a lifelong passion for gardening, I couldn’t resist the urge to extend our green sanctuary. As the livestock facilities were relocated uphill, I seized the opportunity to incorporate farm machinery into shaping the landscape. The steep terrain demanded careful maneuvering, with each year witnessing the gradual expansion of the garden, a testament to the organic evolution common to farm gardens.
What began as a personal endeavor between family and farm duties soon garnered attention from gardening enthusiasts. Initially hosting garden clubs, we eventually joined the New Zealand Gardens Trust, opening our doors to visitors from near and far. Embracing social media, particularly Instagram, allowed us to showcase our garden to a global audience, attracting photographers and earning features in publications worldwide.
What began as a personal endeavor between family and farm duties soon garnered attention from gardening enthusiasts.
Managing the increasing influx of visitors has been a learning curve, requiring us to balance hospitality with the demands of maintaining the garden. While occasional assistance has been enlisted, the bulk of the work remains in my hands, with periodic aid from fellow gardeners like Helen, whose expertise enriched our space.
Despite the perpetual battle against weeds and the challenges posed by wind and wildlife, the joy of gardening has been our driving force. It’s a privilege to cultivate beauty amidst such a stunning backdrop, learning from both the land and the global community of gardeners. Each year brings opportunities for renewal and reinvention, with the garden serving as a canvas for dreams to flourish, reminding us that in the world of gardening, perseverance and imagination are the seeds of success.
fishermansbay.nz
instagram @ fishermansbay_garden
One for your calendar: Fishermans Bay Garden will be included the Akaroa Inside Out House and Garden Tour 2024, 23 – 24 November. Funds raised will be go towards the upkeep of the Akaroa Museum.
