Mania Atkins is Second Nature’s Senior Team Leader for Garden Care and was encouraged to enter the 2024 Young Landscaper of the Year because of its increased focus on softscaping.
A desire to boost the visibility of women in the industry was another important consideration.
“Being able to showcase women in landscaping in a public setting is really important to me and a big part of why I entered,” says Mania, who has worked in landscaping for six years.
“I also want to go up against the guys and prove to myself that I belong in this industry, and to show other people what’s possible.
“While I was encouraged by the soft landscaping element of the competition, I’m in to win the whole thing!” she says.
“My future goal is to integrate Te Ao Māori principles into my work, striving to operate in harmony with Papatūānuku. This holistic approach not only enriches my professional practice but also aligns with broader environmental and cultural values.”
Horticulture Manager Gareth Edge says that Mania is a highly skilled member of the team, whose quality of work speaks for itself.
“The gardens that Mania looks after are always presented to a very high standard, whether it be a highly detailed small courtyard or a large landscaped section.”