15 Jan 2021

The search is on for Christchurch’s best looking gardens.

Judging will begin shortly for the Community Pride Garden Awards – the annual awards that recognise those who contribute to Christchurch’s image as the Garden City by beautifying their streets and gardens.

The awards were established 31 years ago by Christchurch City Council and this year will be run by the Fendalton-Waimairi-Harewood, Halswell-Hornby-Riccarton, Linwood-Central-Heathcote, and Spreydon-Cashmere Community Boards, in conjunction with the Christchurch Beautifying Association.

“Many people across our city take a lot of pride in their garden and put in many hours each week weeding, mulching, pruning and planting to keep their garden looking its best,’’ says Christchurch City Council Head of Community Support, Governance and Partnership John Filsell.

“The Community Pride Garden Awards are our way of acknowledging the work that people put into their gardens and the role they play in making Christchurch the Garden City.’’

Judging for the awards will take place between 16 January and 7 February.  Volunteer judges from the Christchurch Beautifying Association will select award winners by viewing all gardens that are visible from the street in the participating Community Board areas.

The gardens can be residential or commercial, with judges taking into account effort, overall tidiness and the impact the garden has on the street.

All gardens that meet the standard will be awarded a certificate at special ceremonies hosted by each of the participating Community Boards in March or April.

Last year more than 700 certificates were awarded for outstanding gardens.

Find out more about the Community Pride Garden Awards.

Edible and Sustainable Garden Awards

Entries are also currently open for the Linwood-Central-Heathcote and Spreydon-Cashmere Community Board’s Edible and Sustainable Garden Awards.

The Community Board is partnering with the Canterbury Horticultural Society to recognise those who are growing their own food. Entry is free and the awards are open to individuals, groups, schools, early learning centres, and businesses in the Linwood-Central-Heathcote Community Board area.

Entries close on 28 January.

Previous entrants and award winners are eligible to enter, and all entrants receive a certificate.

Find out more about the  Edible and Sustainable Garden Awards.