Fukuoka friendship garden sets new standard in New Zealand

Japanese garden design has evolved over centuries to evoke a tightly controlled but rich sense of place. To achieve this, the gardens tend to be highly detailed, carefully manicured and follow a very strict set of design principles.

Auckland’s original Fukuoka Friendship Garden was completed in August 1990 - a gift to the city from Fukuoka, Japan, in recognition of their sister city relationship. Due to the fragile nature of much of the detailing it was hosted inside Auckland Zoo.

The garden is a tranquil space for contemplation.

But in 2014 it had to be removed to facilitate the Zoo’s long term plans for the area. This caused considerable concern among many in the community, and a “Friends of Fukuoka Garden” group was established to push for its reinstatement.

After consultation it was decided to create a new, equally authentic Japanese Garden using salvaged materials where possible, and designed as a fusion between a traditional “stroll and tea garden” with a mix of Japanese and New Zealand native planting.

The 1800-plus plantings are a mix of Japanese and New Zealand.

Western Springs, adjacent to the zoo, was selected as the new site and Japanese firm, Zen Landscapes, was selected to work with the original garden designer, Professor Kubota of Fukuoka, to create the plans.

One aspect of the garden that was the subject of much discussion was its maintenance. Not only do Japanese gardens require a lot of it because of their detailing, but in countries like New Zealand they’re also susceptible to vandalism as they’re typically hidden from view. For this reason engagement with the Friends group was critical, and it’s hoped it’ll be able to take over the garden’s upkeep.

The garden recognises the strong bond between Auckland and Fukuoka.

The project has realised a number of benefits for the people of Auckland, the most obvious being creation of a tranquil and beautiful space to visit without paying an admission charge. It is the most genuine example of Japanese craftsmanship available in the city.

Mana whenua were engaged throughout the process and contributed a carved kowhatu at the entry to denote their interest in the project and their ties to this place.

Conversely, there have also been benefits for Council in the investment shown by local community groups - most notably the Friends of Fukuoka Garden. A Facebook group has been created, with over 700 members assisting with both the maintenance and ‘ownership’/oversight of the garden. This group maintains a constant awareness of the garden and reports damage immediately - this results in quicker fixes, and the feeling that the space is ‘cared for’.

The new garden is more than twice the size of the original.

Auckland’s Fukuoka garden has set a new standard for Japanese gardens in this country. Many of the techniques and materials were new to this country so the project proved a very steep learning curve. The end result is now free to visit, and the detailing used can become a resource for further projects of this type nationally.