Maple Glen gardens in New Zealand
In fact, it is a 25 acre private garden, which is a home to a large population of native and exotic birds including hand-reared parrots and waterfowl. Open to visitors all year round and there is no set charge for admission (entry by donation). Originaly, the name Maple Glen appeared when they had to officially register the nursery. Meanwhile, at the time there were over 30 varieties of Japanese Maples (Acer sp.) in the property and the garden developed in a curving valley with a water source in the bottom. Such a landform is called a Glen in Bobs native Ireland.

The garden continues to be developed and extended. Recently the acquisition of a second hand hydraulic excavator has made it possible to revisit and redevelop a number of areas in older parts of the garden. This is always done with the intention of improving the views available and incorporates existing plantings whenever possible.

Muriel Davison in his article about the birds in the gardens states that garden without birds is like a rose without a scent, still beautiful, but something lacking. They add music, movement and life to any garden. Ducks, Geese, Swans and many wild wading birds are attracted by the ponds at Maple Glen. Swallows skim across the water catching tiny insects, Stilts, Plovers, Oystercatchers, Herons, Pukekos, Paradise Ducks, Black Swans, Shoveller Ducks, Teal, Scaup, Canada Geese and the ubiquitous Mallards all nest and rear their young in the garden.

Maple Glen gardens in New Zealand

www.mapleglen.co.nz