Country: Woodlands gardener's paradise

For the ultimate in stylish outdoor living, this rural haven has the lot, reports CEDRIC GRAY.

Eleven years ago, Judy Graham and her late husband were attracted to a property in Dominion Rd, Tuakau, because it had a majestic combination of native bush, privacy and 3 ha of wonderful lush pasture.

Apart from the bush, says Judy, there were no other trees in sight. She knew, however, that establishing her dream garden in such an environment would be a mere formality.

Today, her garden at Woodlands, which is an easy 15-minute drive from the Southern Motorway, is admired by groups of South Auckland garden enthusiasts whenever the grounds are open to the public.

"The gardens are a real mix, full of bits and pieces of everything," says Judy. "I'm surprised when so many visitors say how neat and tidy they are."

Looking to the future, Judy has established the gardens on two distinct levels. They are linked by several colourful walkways that are lined with trees and shrubs to provide year-round beauty.

"A future owner may not have the time to care for such a large area, so the lower level can easily be converted to pasture," she says.

The gardens surround a neat three-bedroom home of about 270 sq m. It has several attractive features, notably the extensive use of native timber throughout, and the spacious open-plan kitchen, the main living area and the lounge. The ranch-slider doors provide easy access to the outdoors.

The bedrooms are a generous size, and the attic could easily be converted into a fourth bedroom. The master bedroom has an en suite and a walk-in wardrobe. There is under-floor heating, a central vacuum system and a double attached garage.

The seven well-fenced paddocks are used for dry stock grazing, with ample water provided by the private bore. The protected native bush covers more than 0.4 ha and is home to a wide variety of native birds.

The property is being marketed by Cavendish Real Estate, Papakura, at an asking price of $519,000. Contact Jean Connet on 292 7604 for details.