10 New Zealand Native Plants That Practically Look After Themselves

Low-Maintenance Native Plant Picks for Busy New Zealand Gardens

Whether you're a time-poor homeowner, a busy landlord, or managing an Airbnb, low-maintenance landscaping can be a game-changer. Saving your money and time on keeping your biggest investment looking its best. The great news? New Zealand is blessed with native plants that look beautiful and thrive with very little input.

Native Restorations has been busy compiling 10 of the best low-maintenance native plants that are drought-tolerant, pest-resistant, and perfect for busy lifestyles. Plus, we’ll explain how these hardy heroes can elevate your property, attract native birds, and reduce your need for garden maintenance all year round.

Why Go with New Zealand Native Plants?

Native plants are uniquely adapted to New Zealand’s climate and soil. That means:

✅ Less watering

✅ Minimal fertiliser use

✅ No special soil needs

✅ Greater resistance to local pests

✅ Improved biodiversity and birdlife

💡 Expert Tip: Before planting, always check the location or check with a native plant expert (AKA – Native Restorations)! Even low-maintenance native plants need the right conditions to thrive. Consider sunlight, drainage, wind exposure, and soil type. A shady, damp corner might suit a Carex Secta, while full sun is perfect for hardy Flaxes and Hebes. The right plant in the right place means less watering, fewer problems, and long-term success.

10 Low-Maintenance Native Plants for Easy-Care Gardens

1. Pittosporum Tenuifolium (Kōhūhū)

Great for hedging or privacy. Fast-growing, drought-tolerant, and disease-resistant.

2. Phormium Tenax (Harakeke / NZ Flax)

Bold, architectural foliage with stunning flower spikes that attract Tūī and New Zealand Bellbirds.

3. Libertia Grandiflora (NZ Iris)

Elegant white flowers in spring, tough grassy leaves year-round. Perfect for borders or rock gardens.

4. Leptospermum Scoparium (Mānuka)

This native beauty offers more than honey—its hardy, low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for exposed spots.

5. Coprosma Repens (Taupata)

Shiny green leaves, coastal hardy, and makes a great glossy hedge with very little fuss.

6. Carex Secta (Sedge Grass)

Easygoing and tolerant of both wet and dry soils. Adds movement and texture to any landscape.

7. Griselinia Littoralis (Broadleaf)

A reliable hedge or screen option, quick-growing and extremely tough in all climates.

8. Astelia Nervosa (Mountain Astelia)

With silvery, spiky leaves, this shade-tolerant stunner requires very little once established.

9. Olearia Paniculata (Golden Akeake)

Striking wavy green leaves with pale undersides and a fast-growing, upright habit. Hardy, wind-tolerant, and perfect for hedging or structure in low-maintenance native gardens.

10. Hebe Speciosa

A classic choice with vibrant flowers that bees and butterflies love. Hardy and self-sufficient.

Native Landscaping for Airbnbs and Holiday Homes

Running an Airbnb or short-term rental? These native plants are not just low-maintenance—they're also big on impact.

✨ Here’s why they’re ideal for Airbnbs:

• Attract native birds like Tūī, Kererū, Bellbirds and Fantails—delighting guests

• Require very little upkeep between stays

• Create a natural, calming NZ aesthetic

• Can handle periods of neglect during low seasons

Add a native garden and give guests an authentic taste of Aotearoa right from the deck.

Want a New Zealand Native Garden Without the Guesswork?

At Native Restorations, we design, plant, and maintain low-maintenance native gardens tailored to your space. Whether it’s your home, rental, or Airbnb—we’ll help you make a lasting impact with minimal effort.

🌱 No job too big or too small📍 Serving Marlborough, Nelson, and Kaikōura🛠️ Full-service native plant installation and pest plant removal

👉 Contact us today to schedule a native garden consultation!