Upper Hutt grant recipient receives Landscape Architects Award
Published on 02 July 2024
A project funded by Upper Hutt City Council’s Sustainability Stimulus Grant has been recognised at the New Zealand Institute of Landscape Architects Awards.
The Upper Hutt Sustainable Landscape Guide received the Award of Excellence in the Research and Communication Category at the awards held at the Beehive in May.
The guide, which was written by landscape architects at Urban Edge Planning, provides Upper Hutt locals with the knowledge and skills to start their own landscaping journey.
The Sustainability Stimulus Grant supports and funds projects that align with Council’s Sustainability Strategy and benefit Upper Hutt.
Upper Hutt City Council’s Acting Director, Strategy, Partnerships and Growth, Liezel Jahnke says the guide in a great tool to help improve Upper Hutt’s biodiversity and promote sustainable practices to residents.
“It’s pleasing to see this important and innovative work recognised. Our city has made great progress in understanding and implementing eco-friendly practices in landscaping,” she says.
“As part of our Sustainability Strategy, we have goals around enhancing our natural environment, and keeping the community engaged and informed on sustainability issues. This guide works towards achieving both of those goals.”
Urban Designer and Landscape Architect Andrea Reid said the acknowledgment reinforces Urban Edge Planning’s commitment to sustainable practices and highlights the importance of promoting environmentally conscious landscaping.
“The Sustainability Stimulus Grant has provided essential funding and resources enabling innovative projects like the Upper Hutt Sustainable Landscape Guide to come to fruition. They could never be achieved without it,” she says.
Reid says the grants have empowered local organisations and individuals to implement environmentally friendly practices.
“By supporting initiatives that promote sustainability, we are investing in the long-term health and vitality of our environment.”