Regular visitors to the Ashburton Domain will have noticed a new garden under construction.

A 70-metre strip along on the eastern edge of a path from the water feature to the domain playing fields has been dug up, composted, and rotary hoed ready for planting.

The garden will mirror plantings on the western side of the path and serve to create an avenue entrance into this area of the domain. Buxus, hydrangeas, dahlias and delphiniums will be planted.

The picnic area and tables adjacent to the path is referred to as the Royal Lawn and is well used throughout the year, with access from the carpark, or via the domain’s path network. The area features a Tillia (European Lime)  tree, planted on 4 August 2000 to celebrate the 100th birthday of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.

The domain itself was planned when Ashburton was first laid out in 1864 and over the years it has been developed into a beautiful open space, accommodating trees and gardens, as well as swimming pools and a multitude of sports.