The more information you can give a landscaper upfront, the more accurate and useful their quote will be. A well-prepared homeowner gets better prices, avoids nasty surprises, and makes it much easier to compare quotes from different tradespeople. Here's what to pull together before you pick up the phone.
Know Your Site
Before anything else, understand what you're working with. Landscapers need to assess your section to price accurately, but you can speed things up by noting:
- Section size – measure the area you want landscaped in square metres if you can. Even a rough estimate helps.
- Slope and drainage – is the ground flat, gently sloping, or steep? Does water pool anywhere after rain? NZ's varied terrain means earthworks costs can vary enormously.
- Soil type – heavy clay, sandy, or good loam? If you've had soil tests done, share the results.
- Existing features – trees, shrubs, fences, paths, retaining walls, or structures that need to stay or be removed.
- Access – can machinery get in? A narrow side gate or steep driveway can affect how work is done and what it costs.
Be Clear About What You Want
You don't need a detailed design brief, but having a clear idea of your goals makes a huge difference. Think about:
- Purpose – is this about kerb appeal, a play area for kids, entertaining space, low-maintenance planting, or all of the above?
- Style – formal, native NZ planting, tropical, cottage garden? Collect photos from magazines or Pinterest to show your landscaper.
- Priority areas – if budget is tight, which parts of the garden matter most?
- Timeline – do you have a deadline, such as a summer event or a property sale?
Being upfront about your budget range is also genuinely helpful. Landscapers can tailor their proposal to what's realistic rather than designing something you can't afford.
Gather Your Property Documents
Some landscaping work in New Zealand requires a building consent, and your landscaper will need to know about any restrictions on your property. Useful documents include:
- Certificate of Title – shows easements, covenants, or rights of way that might affect what you can build.
- LIM report (Land Information Memorandum) – highlights hazards, drainage, and any council notices on the property. You can order one from your local council.
- Site plan or survey – shows boundaries, which matters for fences, retaining walls, and structures near the boundary.
Retaining walls over 1.5 metres high typically require a building consent under the NZ Building Code, and some structures near boundaries or over certain sizes may also need consent. Always confirm with your local council — Schedule 1 of the Building Act lists exemptions, but rules vary by council and site.
Understand What's Underground
This is a big one. Before any digging starts, you need to know where your services are:
- Water, wastewater, and stormwater pipes – your council or a drainlayer can help locate these.
- Electrical cables – underground power lines can be a serious hazard. WorkSafe NZ has clear guidance on safe digging practices.
- Gas lines – if you have reticulated gas, know where it runs.
- Irrigation systems – if you have existing irrigation, mark it out or have a plan available.
Your landscaper should also do their own due diligence, but the more you know upfront, the safer and smoother the job will go.
Think About Water and Irrigation
NZ's climate varies hugely — from the wet West Coast to dry Canterbury summers — so irrigation needs differ by region. Consider:
- Do you want an irrigation system installed?
- Where is your outdoor tap, and what's the water pressure like?
- Are there any water restrictions in your area during summer?
If you want a new outdoor tap or irrigation connected to your mains supply, note that plumbing work is restricted work under NZ law and must be carried out by a licensed plumber registered with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board. Your landscaper may subcontract this, so ask upfront.
Make a Simple Checklist to Share
When you contact landscapers for quotes, having a simple written summary to share saves everyone time. A useful one-pager might include:
| Item | Your Details |
|---|---|
| Section size (approx.) | e.g. 200 m² rear garden |
| Scope of work | e.g. new lawn, raised beds, paving |
| Features to keep | e.g. existing oak tree, back fence |
| Features to remove | e.g. old concrete path, overgrown hedge |
| Budget range | e.g. $10,000–$15,000 (as a guide) |
| Preferred start date | e.g. after school holidays |
| Consent needed? | Check with council |
When to Call a Professional
Most landscaping work can be carried out by a qualified landscaper without restricted trade licences, but there are important exceptions:
- Plumbing and drainage – any connection to the mains water supply or wastewater system must be done by a licensed plumber or drainlayer (PGDB).
- Electrical work – outdoor lighting connected to your home's wiring is restricted electrical work and must be done by a registered electrician (EWRB).
- Retaining walls and structures – walls over 1.5 m or those near boundaries may require a building consent and involvement of a Licensed Building Practitioner.
For any project of significant size or complexity, it's well worth getting at least three quotes from qualified local landscapers. You can find experienced landscapers in your area right here on tradedirectory.co.nz.
Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP)
