Our backyard

At the beginning of this year we re-structured our backyard from a rambling overgrown garden full of mature trees and amazing plants that were cramped among weeds without sunshine which gave the section a cold and damp feel. Broken down fences added to our dilemma on both sides of the neighbours. It definitely was time for a makeover. 
We decided to keep it simple and easy maintenance with a mediterranean feel. We built the fences on the neighbours sides. We were blessed to have generous and kind neighbours that helped us with the building of the fences and financial contributions towards the expenses. 
Keeping in mind the cold temperatures we have in Timaru. We divided the section in 3 parts. The back part we planted olive trees and Feijoa to screen off the back. Its silvery grey leaves compliments the blue gray fence. The right side of the neighbour we planted 12 Thuja Smaragd (narrowly conical small trees with bright green foliage lined against the fence complemented with lavender plants and around the garden edge we planted buxus. 
On the left side against the hedge we created a path and filled it with gray gravel (when it rains the gravel turns black and gives another dimension of beauty and colour) this path also creates an access to trimming the hedge. In the centre of the garden we planted 12 NZ cordyline (cabbage trees) and in between these cordylines we planted Salvias plants (has small flowers and smells herbal,so delicious). Also planted rows of lavender and buxus to mirror the other side.
I have attached a picture of the other side of the garden. 
We are looking forward to our garden filled with beautiful plants. Today was spent in the garden weeding and waiting for all the plants to grow. Lovely to see new growth on all the plants, A very busy and productive day. 
Still work in progress, hope to install a pergola in the middle back of the section.