Our Family
Kat - Our Queen of Gardening
Kat LOVES plants. Not only that, she loves sharing her knowledge of plants and helping others become more capable and confident gardeners too.
"Plants naturally want to grow! Sometimes we just need to get out of the way and let them."
Having completed her Bachelor of Landscape Architecture degree in 2019, Kat has since redirected any spare time she has into "treading the boards" in a wide variety of plays and musicals at 16th Ave Theatre. This combination of life experience, a University education and love of performing, has culminated in the creation of 'Kat's Garden Club' where Kat gets to bring all her talent and skills out to play!
Her passion for the outdoors and plants is obvious as she imparts valuable tips, design advice, and stories from her own journey in the world of gardening. Whether it’s sparking a passion for nature in young students or inspiring seasoned gardeners to try new techniques, Kat relishes the opportunity to connect with others and foster a deeper appreciation for nature through her speaking engagements and events both here at Kereru Gardens and at other venues throughout New Zealand.
Caroline - Always Here to Help
Mum, Caroline, loves being part of Kereru Gardens still. Despite the fact that she and husband, Richard, still have their own nursery to run in Katikati where all our non-propagated seedlings originate. Caroline plays a vital role in our retail operations, helping customers select the right plant for their property and making sure they know how to plant and nurture them to grow into the luscious trees, ground cover or hedges they will eventually become.
Bringing with her a wealth of knowledge that can only come from a lifetime of living and working with plants, Caroline is happy to answer any questions you may have and can point you in the right direction for the best plant for your needs.
She's also been known to break spontaneously into song or prose being also a keen thespian in her time!
Richard - Supporting Our Process
Dad, Richard, is a well-loved, familiar face at our potting up table. Always happy to help and keen to get his hands in the dirt whenever possible.
It is thanks to Richard & Caroline's foresight and vision that Kereru Gardens is the beautiful garden centre that we enjoy today. While Kat purchased the business from her parents in 2023, Richard still enjoys being involved.
Casual Helpers
At certain times of the year, we call on our extra helpers here and there to get stuck in with us at the potting table or helping out with the many, many tasks required to keep our nursery healthy and thriving.
If you are interested in joining our team and helping out on a casual basis then contact us directly or email us here.
