Rain-ready garden design

Nelson might have one of the lowest rainfalls in the country, but when the rain does come, it tends to mean business, and be heavy. Sudden big downpours can overwhelm driveways, flood pathways, and compromise your retaining walls. That’s why smart garden design in our region is about more than looks — it’s about safety and resilience.

In our design process, we help homeowners get ahead of excess rain by integrating hardscaping solutions that manage water effectively on their property through safer solutions like rainwater tanks, surface drains, and permeable material choices.

Surface and design solutions to consider to safely manage water on your property.

Collect It, Don’t Fight It

Rainwater tanks are one of the simplest ways to prepare for both wet and dry seasons. Connected to your existing downpipes, they store water during heavy rain for reuse during a dry spell — great for your plants and easier on the mains. Even if some of your shed, house or garage downpipes aren’t connected into a storm drain, a rainwater tank can help prevent pooling and localised flooding.

Let It Flow the Right Way

Waterlogged soil puts added pressure on retaining walls, especially older ones with little or no drainage behind them. When that water builds up, so does the risk of collapse. We design and build retaining walls with built-in drainage materials and outlets — plus, we plan where that water goes next, which is crucial on sloped sites.

Smarter Surfaces

Permeable surfaces like specially designed pavers or gravel let rain soak into the ground, reducing runoff and easing the load on drains. They’re perfect for driveways and patios—but only if water doesn’t pool elsewhere as a result.

On the flip side, impermeable surfaces like porcelain or sealed concrete require well-planned surface drainage. These areas can also feed into rainwater tanks when fitted with sumps and filters, giving you usable garden water while keeping excess out of the stormwater system.

Quick Tip Before It Pours

Before the next downpour hits, give your gutters and drains a clear-out. And if you’ve got a tank? Empty some of it, so you’re ready to collect again when the skies open up.

Want to future-proof your garden for Nelson’s wild weather? Book a consultation with Tim and get expert advice tailored to your property.

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