How one couple transformed a bare block into a fernery in all its finery
When Kathy Lanagan and Neil Scarlett bought a bare block of land in North Canterbury back in 1993, they weren’t sure what they would do about a home.
But Lanagan, an enthusiastic gardener from an early age, started planting a garden anyway.
So when they bought the old stationmaster’s house in nearby Kaiapoi several years later and relocated it to the block – the garden had already begun.
“It’s definitely a house in a garden,” says Lanagan. “We’re not really indoor people so you mostly find us outside.”
It’s easy to see why. A 3-metre wide wooden verandah spans the length of the house, its wooden ceiling made from the repurposed sarking from the original roof. It’s punctuated with skylights to allow natural daylight and there are lights for the nighttime. There’s a serving hatch and wooden bar by the kitchen window and a green couch and chairs surround a coffee table against the backdrop of pale green weatherboards.
Poll: Do you set New Year’s resolutions?
🎉 2026 is almost here!
We’re curious ... how do you welcome it?
Do you set resolutions, follow special traditions, or just go with the flow?
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10.5% Yes! New Year, New Me
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20.2% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
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69.3% Nah - not for me
Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD
The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’
If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.
Today’s Mind-Bender is the Last of the Year! Can You Guess It Before Everyone Else? 🌟🎁🌲
I dance in the sky with green and gold, a spectacle few are lucky to behold; I’m best seen in the south, a celestial sight—what am I, lighting up the New Zealand night?
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm on the day!
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