Cantabrian crowned young landscaper of the year
by Metropol | October 28, 2026 8:33 am
After two days of written, practical and communication challenges in Christchurch’s Botanic Gardens that tested the landscaping ability of 10 emerging professionals, Canterbury’s Connor Sullivan… was crowned 2026 Young Landscaper of the Year. The Canterra landscape architect talks to Metropol editor Nina Tucker.
From Registered Master Landscapers, a national final for professionals aged 30 and under brought 10 emerging landscapers to Christchurch in September; assessing elements like machinery operation, trailer and tool handling, soft landscape setout, lawn installation, profile setout, design, irrigation, plant identification, paving and hardscape construction, health and safety, communication and the ability to work accurately under pressure. “Connor’s result reflects the qualities this competition is designed to reveal: broad practical capability, sound judgement, confident communication and the ability to perform under pressure,” says Rachel Louie of Registered Master Landscapers.
What was your pathway into landscaping?
I studied Landscape Architecture at Lincoln University and worked for a design and build company for five years. Pivoting into design and build and getting a taste for the construction side of landscaping was, in hindsight, one of the best things I have done. Having both designer and landscaper hats on at times is a great way to manage jobs from an idea to a completed product. That is what I get the most satisfaction out of as a landscaper.
Describe the pivotal moments that have guided you to become 2026’s Young Landscaper?
Pivotal moments throughout my career include Jamie at DWG taking me under his wing and teaching me about the landscape world. Another one is my current business partner Brogan pushing me to start a business together. I have gone from strength to strength not only as a landscaper but with maturity and self-improvement since becoming a business owner.
This achievement… what does it mean to you?
With the win comes a great sense of achievement. It has assured the confidence I have in my abilities as a landscaper. It was an awesome feeling to come out on top however I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and it is a credit to the event organisers, Registered Master Landscapers, and contestants from nationwide.
As overall winner, I received a prize package valued at more than $8000, including use of a Geely ute for October.
What comes next?
Next for me is to keep learning every day and honing my skills as a landscaper. Providing a quality product for clients and growing a workplace where people enjoy coming to work are my two main goals currently.
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Quick Fire with Connor Sullivan
Your foolproof advice for the first-time landscaper?
Give everything a go and ask lots of questions. Make mistakes, it’s the best way to learn.
The plant you’ll always rely on for Canterbury soil?
Apodasmia similis. It looks great planted en masse and will be very forgiving to you planted in any type of soil.
What’s the biggest myth in landscaping?
There is no such thing as a zero-maintenance garden! Get out and get your hands dirty.
Your favourite spot to celebrate an achievement like this?
In the office pricing jobs on a Sunday afternoon with my best mate (and business partner). Lol.
How do you spend a day when you’re not at work?
I like to get out in the hills hiking and hunting, leaving the phone at home. I find it a great way to decompress.
Source URL: https://metropol.co.nz/cantabrian-crowned-young-landscaper-of-the-year/