Thelma Meyer - Auckland Landscaping Specialist

We contacted Zones Landscaping after finding them online and being impressed with the catalogue of recent projects. Our initial inquiry put us in touch with Thelma, who came around to meet us in person, see the space, and talk through what we were looking to achieve, essentially being another "room" for the house and outdoor space for summer entertaining, whilst being low maintenance and works that didn't require a consent. Thelma walked us through the process, and how Zones added value through that process with sourcing of trades and management of the process. The discussion progressed to a meeting with a landscape architect to develop a concept design and talk through the options available to us, whilst also reflecting on budget implications. This was helpful in informing what we could achieve within the limited budget we had. Having an architect right there was an added benefit, being able to get immediate feedback on ideas and thoughts around finish and design.

After finalising the design and budget, Thelma got to work and programmed the works, managing the individual trades to ensure that our goal of works being complete pre-Christmas was achieved. It was great to see works commence and the trades dovetail with each other to ensure that no day was wasted, and certainly gave as an appreciation for the value that Zones and Thelma provide. She was there everyday keeping an eye on things (much to the interest of our dog). The relationships and programming of the works were elements that we underestimated and would have struggled with on our own.

Issues inevitably arose around bad weather, location of services, trenching, availability of concrete colour, and installation of drainage. These were all addressed with urgency to ensure no time was lost, and feedback was sought from us "on the spot" so the team weren't delayed, and critical items like the concrete pour were done so as not to miss opportunities with the various trades. Some of these might have been addressed earlier with a more detailed design and due diligence, but inevitably at a cost and programme impact. We had to go for it, and Thelma got us there.

We are more than happy with the outcome, and it has achieved the key deliverables that we sought. We stretched the budget to include a few extras, which were well worth it. We only wish we had a bit more budget to take advantage of Thelma and her team to fulfill our complete wish list! One day.

Landscaping Consultant: Thelma Meyer