Auckland Domain Wintergardens: 100-year-old Grand Dames throw off the covers
The 100-year-old grand old glasshouses at the Auckland Domain Winter garden have been “under the covers” for the past two years; now they are throwing off those covers to begin a new chapter in their life.
Covid-19 lockdowns denied the dames the chance to celebrate their 100th birthday in October 2021 so Auckland Council is reintroducing them to the public this week.
“It’s been pain-staking work to sympathetically restore these beautiful old heritage glasshouse buildings which have hosted weddings, musical recitals and APEC world leaders,” Desley Simpson chair of the Auckland Domain committee and Deputy Mayor said.
The buildings have not simply been restored - they’ve been made even better, she said.
“The sensitive seismic upgrading and attention to detail has not only saved but enhanced these key historic buildings,” Tracey Hartley of Salmond Reed Architects the company charged with overseeing the restoration said.
Works began in early 2021 and carried out in two stages with each of the glasshouses taking approximately 12 months to complete at a cost of $5.62m.
Seeking house sitting with a cat
Hi, I'm interested to house sit for anyone around Remuera or nearby suburbs over the holiday weeks. 🎄🎁
I have a cat I'd like to spend time with as I'm not allowed to have him where I live currently.
My cat minder is going overseas for three weeks from 22 December 2024.
I'm honest, respectful of others privacy and property. I'm very clean and tidy and I will happily do jobs like basic garden work while you're away to keep busy. 🙂
I'm keeping options open reaching out on Neighbourly as well as signing up on a house sitting website.
If you or you know of anyone who's looking for a house sitter please feel free to contact me on the below.
WhatsApp or mobile: 0212925444.
Facebook: Marissa Bürkle
LinkedIn: Marissa Burkle
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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5% Second half of November
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44.6% 1st December
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16.7% A week before Christmas
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32.4% Whenever you wish
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1.2% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.