Amidst my husband's illness, our once vibrant and joyful garden transformed into a sanctuary offering comfort and care during tough times.

In the heart of New Zealand, Ann-Maree Winter's seven-acre property, rich with volcanic soil, has transformed into a breathtaking perennial garden. The couple, Ann-Maree and Paul, moved from a 450 square metre suburban plot in 2015, seeking a change of pace and space.

The garden, a testament to Ann-Maree's creative vision, is a symphony of colours that guides the eye from one spot to another. With pops of vibrant hues creating a sense of musicality, the garden ebbs and flows, much like a melody, with lulls and crescendos accentuated by the play of light.

Ann-Maree approaches colour with a sense of musicality and movement, grouping warm and cool colours together in each area. The colour relationships of the entire garden space are considered, not just within particular garden beds. This holistic approach results in a visually stunning display that captivates all who visit.

The site's steep slope and exposure to harsh winds have been the greatest challenges to the garden's creation. To counter these elements, large rocks were placed to break up the slope, and a hedge was planted to protect new plantings from wind and harsh western sun. The stepping of the slope and buffer plantings have created a number of different microclimates within the garden, suiting a wide variety of plants.

The garden has been a source of comfort and joy during challenging times, particularly during the Covid-19 lockdowns. It also became an oasis for Ann-Maree and Paul when Paul was diagnosed with lymphoma a few years after they purchased the property. The garden provided a sanctuary for both, offering a place of solace and healing.

Ann-Maree's perennial garden is an experiment in colour, texture, and resilience, inspired by local garden designers such as Jo Ferguson and Jac Semmler. Initially sparsely planted with native plants strangled by weed mat and gum trees along fence lines, the garden has evolved over time. Ann-Maree responded by beginning to plant a windbreak and making an "inner sanctum of over-the-topness" to counter the inhospitable environment.

Now, around one and a half of the seven acres are gardened, including a productive and picking garden, a sculptural cluster of three eucalyptus trees, and a high-octane perennial garden, which Ann-Maree affectionately refers to as a "colour bomb" and "jewel box."

In recent years, Ann-Maree has been experimenting with more native plants in the garden and plans to plant the paddocks beyond with endemic species, forming part of an important local vegetation and wildlife corridor. This move reflects a shift in Ann-Maree's approach to the garden, moving from a reaction to the place to a conversation with it.

As Ann-Maree continues to nurture and evolve her garden, it remains a place of unbridled joy for her. She finds joy and laughter in the garden, often describing it as a place of unbridled joy. The garden's transformation is a testament to Ann-Maree's passion, creativity, and resilience, and it continues to be a source of inspiration for many.