Mt Albert Garden Design Beginnings

My love for gardens and garden design began over 25 years ago, when I bought my first home in Mt Albert, Auckland. While renovating, I found myself just as drawn to the garden as the house and that is where my journey as a landscape designer truly began – falling in love with plants, experimenting with combinations and discovering how they could transform a space.

A Trip To Europe

Not long after, a trip to Europe deepened that passion. Visiting some of the world’s most celebrated gardens inspired me to change direction completely.

A Diploma in Landscape Design

I left my career as a Prepress Mac-Operator in the printing industry and enrolled full-time in 2000 in Landscape Design at Unitec, where I achieved a Diploma in Landscape Design. This was three intensive years of learning the fundamentals of Landscape Design.

An Entrepeneurial Calling

Once I finished studying, I focused on my goal of starting my own business, it was always the dream. Entrepreneurship runs in my family – my father and my Dutch grandparents all had businesses of their own – so it felt natural to follow that path – so I launched my own practice.

Industry Recognition

Along the way, I was fortunate to appear as a presenter on Maggie Barry’s garden show, contribute to feature magazines, and even win gold at the Ellerslie Flower Show. These experiences sharpened my ability to communicate design ideas clearly – not just to clients, but to wider audiences. Writing for garden magazines allowed me to educate, inspire and connect with people.

I Love What I Do

What I love most about landscape design is the transformation – taking an idea and bringing it to life in a way that changes how people live in their homes. I value the creative process, the collaboration with skilled contractors, and the relationships built along the way.

But perhaps my greatest joy comes years later, returning to a garden and seeing it flourish. To watch a design mature into a living, breathing space that enhances daily life – that’s what inspires me, and why I still love what I do today.

About the author

With over 25 years’ experience in landscape design, Sandra Batley is an Auckland-based designer specialising in refined, enduring residential gardens. Her work focuses on thoughtful planning, quality materials, and creating outdoor spaces designed
to be enjoyed year-round.