Decks & Outdoor LivingView service
Landscape Construction Nelson & Tasman
Good landscaping is not just about how it looks on day one. It needs to be built properly, suit the site, and stand up to the conditions here in Nelson and Tasman.
At Sherlock Landscaping, we specialise in landscape construction Nelson homeowners can rely on — from decks and patios to fences, retaining walls, garden beds and drainage solutions. Every project is designed around the site, the home, and the way you want to use the space, so it performs well for years to come.Many landscaping projects begin with a clear plan. If you’re still shaping ideas for your space, our landscape design services can help map out the layout before construction begins.
What We Build
The structural elements that bring shape, function, and flow to your outdoor space.
Decks & Outdoor Living
A good deck gives you more usable outdoor space and helps connect the house to the garden. It creates room to relax, entertain, and connect your home to the garden in a way that feels natural and practical.
We design and build custom decks, pergolas, and outdoor living areas to suit the shape of your site, the style of your home, and the way you want to live outside. Whether you need a straightforward timber deck or a more detailed multi-level build for a sloping section, we focus on getting the structure right from the start.
Because we work in Nelson and Tasman conditions every day, we also consider the details that matter long term — including sun exposure, drainage, coastal air, and site stability.
Decking options
Treated pine & macrocarpa
A practical and versatile option for many homes.
Kwila & hardwood decking
A premium natural finish with warmth, durability, and lasting appeal.
We can also incorporate pergolas, privacy screens, steps, gates, and integrated fencing to create a more complete outdoor living space.
Do I need consent for a deck in Nelson?
In many cases, decks with a fall height under 1.5 metres do not require building consent. If the deck is higher than that, or the site has boundary or structural considerations, we can help guide you through what is needed.
Decks often become the centre of an outdoor space. If you’re planning a larger landscape transformation, it can also be helpful to explore our full range of landscaping services in Nelson & Tasman.
Paths, Patios & Courtyards
Paths, patios, and courtyards help bring structure and flow to a landscape. They connect outdoor areas, improve usability, and make the space easier to enjoy year-round.
We build practical, well-finished surfaces that work with the site and feel right with the style of the home. Whether it is a paved entertaining area, a garden path, or a more defined courtyard space, we focus on layout, levels, and drainage so the finished result performs properly in all conditions.
What we build
Paving & patios
Concrete, pavers, stone, and other hard-wearing finishes for outdoor living.
Garden paths
Clean, practical access through gardens and around the property.
Courtyards
Outdoor areas designed for relaxing, entertaining, and everyday use.
How do I stop water pooling on a patio?
The key is getting the prep, falls, and drainage right before the surface goes down. We plan for runoff early so water moves away from the house and the patio stays functional in wet weather.
Fences & Retaining Walls
Fences and retaining walls do a lot of heavy lifting in a landscape. They create privacy, support changes in level, and help turn difficult sections into practical, usable spaces.
We build fencing and retaining solutions that are tailored to the site and suited to local conditions. From timber and ColorSteel fencing to residential retaining walls for sloping ground, our focus is on solid construction, clean finish, and long-term performance.
In Nelson and Tasman, soil conditions and drainage matter. That is why we look carefully at how the wall or fence needs to function, not just how it will look once it is finished.
Do I need consent for a retaining wall in Nelson?
Often, retaining walls under 1.5 metres do not require consent, provided they are not supporting additional load. Once height, surcharge, or boundary conditions come into play, requirements can change. We can help assess that early in the process.
Garden Beds & Planter Boxes
Raised garden beds and planter boxes are a simple way to bring structure, softness, and usability into an outdoor space. They work especially well on compact sections, around entertaining areas, or anywhere you want planting to feel more intentional and easier to manage.
We build custom planter boxes and raised beds to suit the style of your home and landscape — from clean modern lines to more natural timber finishes. They can be practical, decorative, or both, depending on how you want the space to function.
Are raised garden beds easier to maintain?
For many homeowners, yes. They can improve drainage, reduce bending, help define planting areas, and make it easier to manage soil quality and planting over time.
Raised beds are often added after a section has been cleared or reshaped. If your property needs preparation work first, our garden clean up and site preparation service can help get the space ready.
Rock Walls, Stonework & Timber Features
Natural materials add depth and character to a landscape. Stone and timber can soften a space, create contrast, and give outdoor areas a more finished, lasting feel.
We build feature elements that work with the wider landscape rather than feeling added on. That might include rock walls, stone detailing, timber edging, steps, or custom-built features that help tie the whole space together.
Why use natural stone in a landscape?
Natural stone is durable, low-maintenance, and timeless. It also adds texture and a sense of permanence that works beautifully in both modern and more natural garden styles.
These types of features often complement other structural elements like fences and retaining walls, helping tie the whole outdoor space together.
Drainage & Runoff Solutions
A landscape needs to handle water properly if it is going to last.
Drainage and site preparation are some of the most important parts of any construction project, especially on sloping ground or sites with heavier soils. We design practical solutions that help protect your property, reduce erosion, and keep outdoor spaces functional through changing weather.
This can include ground shaping, preparation work, drainage behind retaining walls, surface water control, and other site-specific solutions depending on how the land behaves.
Good drainage also starts with understanding the soil itself. Different soil types hold water differently, which can affect everything from retaining walls to lawns and planting areas.
If you're interested in how soil preparation affects long-term garden health, you can also read our guide on why proper soil preparation matters before planting.
What is the best way to manage runoff on a sloping section? There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The right solution depends on the shape of the site, soil conditions, and where the water needs to go. We assess those details and recommend a practical approach that works for the property long term.
Read More
The importance of setting heights early
Before any serious landscaping construction begins, getting the levels right can make a huge difference to how the whole project comes together. Read our guide on The Importance of Setting Heights in Landscaping Projects to understand why it matters.
Built for Nelson & Tasman conditions
Good landscape construction should feel solid, practical, and well considered from the ground up.
At Sherlock Landscaping, we focus on landscape construction Nelson homeowners can trust. We build outdoor spaces that are designed to work with the site, suit the home, and stand up to local conditions. Whether you are planning a new deck, retaining wall, patio, or a more complete landscape build, we focus on workmanship that lasts and spaces that feel right to live in.
Ready to Start Your Project?
From concept to construction, we’ll help you design and build outdoor spaces that work beautifully for your home and lifestyle. Call 021 121 1006 for a free landscaping consultation in the Nelson & Tasman region.
Landscape Construction FAQs for Nelson & Tasman
What does landscape construction include?
Everything that gives your outdoor space structure — decks, pergolas, retaining walls, fences, paths, patios, and paved courtyards — all designed for Nelson–Tasman conditions.
Do I need council consent for a deck or retaining wall in Nelson?
Decks under 1.5 m high usually don’t need consent. Retaining walls over 1.5 m or those supporting extra load generally do. We’ll confirm this for your property and help with the council process.
How much does landscape construction cost?
Pricing depends on the design, site access, and materials. After a site visit, we’ll provide a clear estimate with transparent, charge-up billing.
How long does a typical project take?
Timeframes vary with size and weather, but we’ll map out a start date, milestones, and completion timeline so you know what to expect.
What materials work best in Nelson & Tasman?
We recommend durable, low-maintenance options suited to our climate — treated timbers, quality fixings, locally sourced stone, and paving designed with proper falls and drainage.
My site is overgrown — can you help before construction starts?
Yes. We can clear, level, or regrade your site and set correct levels so the construction phase runs smoothly. You can also garden clean up service to see how we prepare and refresh outdoor spaces before new landscaping begins.
Talk to Our Team
Sherlock Landscaping | Nelson, Tasman
Book Your Free Landscaping Consultation
Phone: 021 121 1006
Email: service@sherlocklandscaping.co.nz
Location: 11 Poutama Street, Richmond 7020
