Sizing up your small outdoor space
1. Less can be more
It’s important not to try and fit too much into your small space. Do one thing, and do it really well. You might decide to keep your patio for outdoor dining, with a table and chairs, or instead just use it for lounging, or perhaps for growing vegetables.
2. It’s easy being green
Don’t be scared of planting. Some people think ‘if I have a small courtyard and pave the whole thing, it will feel much bigger and be more useable’. But remember that a garden has to have plants to be a garden. Plants also add texture and draw the eye to the greenery, enhancing the sense of size.
3. A change is as good as a holiday
You can now get coffee tables that double up as fire-pits, as well as other multi-purpose furniture pieces or use plenty of fold-up chairs that you can sit pots on and then turn back into seats when people come around. They’re all an excellent use of space.
Think about how you’re planning to use the space. Is outdoor dining essential, or is it primarily a space to relax and unwind? Take your design cues from what you really need.
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Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59.8% Yes, supporting people is important!
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25.9% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.4% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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