When the Auckland Botanic Gardens asked us to develop some highly detailed maps for two of their most popular gardens, we knew this was a job for Mike Codling, our illustrator.

The Threatened Native Plant Garden (2004) was the first collection in the Auckland Botanic Gardens to feature a combination of bespoke ‘hard’ landscaping and planted areas. This highly successful garden features a series of 14 habitats found around the Auckland region. All of these habitats are under threat, and the specialised plants that have adapted to these habitats are often almost extinct. The story of these plants and how the staff at the Auckland Botanic Gardens work on their preservation is told in this collection. To help convey these stories, there was a need to show all of the habitats in a comprehensive way.

The Potter Children’s Garden (2005/2012) is another highly landscaped garden, with lots of stories. Developed in two stages, this busy garden has a lot to offer visiting children and their parents. One section features the pūriri tree and the kererū, the NZ wood pigeon. The other section features some stunning world habitats, showcasing how plants have adapted to these often extreme conditions. The maps needed to show the full range of features of this detailed area.

Mike worked in four stages: First a rough sketch was created, to capture all elements, this was checked, changed and refined until everything was in the right place. Then a ‘clean’ version was drawn in pencil, and signed off. After that the entire drawing was scanned and colourised on the computer. Once this was approved, the final sign layout was created.

For the Children’s Garden Mike created three drawings, geared to the perspective from the three main entrances. For the Threatened Native Plant Garden only one overview map was needed.

These maps are highly detailed, showing gorgeous textures.

Go have a look

Visit the stunning Auckland Botanic Gardens - they are located in Manurewa, close to the Southern Motorway.

Credits

Client: Auckland Botanic Gardens - Julia Watson and the collection curators.
Design concept: Snapper Graphics - Mike Codling and Jan Ramp.
Artwork: Mike Codling.
Photos: Auckland Botanic Gardens.