Landscaping with Olive Trees in New Zealand

Landscaping with Olive Trees in New Zealand

A Guide for Homeowners, Landscapers & Developers

Olive trees (Olea europaea) have long been a symbol of elegance and resilience, bringing a timeless Mediterranean charm to gardens and landscapes. But beyond their aesthetic appeal, olive trees thrive in many regions of New Zealand, making them a smart, low-maintenance choice for both residential and commercial landscaping projects.

Whether you’re a homeowner creating a private sanctuary, a landscaper designing a modern outdoor space, or a developer looking for sustainable planting solutions, olive trees offer versatility, durability, and beauty.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to use olive trees effectively in your landscape, the best varieties for New Zealand, and how to care for them so they thrive for decades.

Why Olive Trees are a Smart Choice for NZ Landscaping

Olive trees are becoming an increasingly popular landscaping feature in New Zealand, thanks to their:

Drought Tolerance

 Once established, olive trees require minimal watering, making them ideal for dry regions like Canterbury and Hawke’s Bay.

Evergreen Foliage

Their silvery-green leaves provide year-round beauty and structure in the garden.

Low Maintenance

They require little pruning and are generally pest-resistant.

Privacy & Wind Protection

When planted as hedges, olive trees offer excellent screening from wind and neighbours.

Suitability for Coastal Areas

Olive trees thrive in NZ’s coastal climates, particularly in Auckland, Bay of Plenty, and Northland.

Perfect for New Zealand Climate

Olive trees thrive in New Zealand’s temperate climate, especially in regions with dry summers and mild winters, making them a hardy and low-maintenance choice.

A Taste of the Mediterranean at Home

Many olive varieties grow well in New Zealand, allowing you to enjoy fresh, homegrown olives and even press your own olive oil—perfect for food lovers!

Choosing the Right Olive Tree for Your NZ Garden

Choosing the Right Olive Tree for Your NZ Garden

Not all olive trees are created equal. Depending on your space and climate, different varieties may be more suitable.

1. Frantoio Olive (Olea Europea)

(Best for Coastal & Warmer Climates)

  • Ideal for: Coastal gardens, larger landscapes, or feature planting.
  • Growth Habit: Medium-sized, spreading tree with dense foliage.
  • Fruit: Produces high-quality olive oil but can also be grown ornamentally.

2. Koroneiki Olive

(Best for Compact Spaces & Pots)

  • Ideal for: Small gardens, pots, and urban courtyards.
  • Growth Habit: Compact with a dense canopy.
  • Fruit: High-yielding, smaller-sized olives.

3. Manzanillo Olive

(Best for Decorative Landscaping & Shade)

  • Ideal for: Feature trees in large garden designs.
  • Growth Habit: Wide-spreading canopy, offering excellent shade.
  • Fruit: Larger table olives with excellent flavour.

How to Use Olive Trees in Your Landscape

How to Use Olive Trees in Your Landscape

1. As a Statement Feature Tree

Olive trees make a stunning focal point in gardens, courtyards, and entranceways. Plant a single mature olive tree in a central spot to create a Mediterranean feel.Best For: Homeowners, landscape architects, and developers wanting to add instant impact to an outdoor space.Example: A mature olive tree at the entrance of a new architectural home in Queenstown can soften the modern lines while providing year-round greenery.Recommended Size: Large Feature Olive Trees

2. As a Privacy Hedge or Windbreak

Olive trees can be planted in rows to create natural hedges or windbreaks for rural properties, lifestyle blocks, or even urban gardens. Their dense foliage filters wind and reduces noise, making them perfect for homes near busy roads.Best For: Homeowners and developers looking for an alternative to traditional hedging species like Griselinia or Pittosporum.Planting Tip: Space trees 1.5m apart for a dense hedge or 2.5m apart for a looser, informal look.Recommended Size for Hedging: Hedging Olive Trees

3. As a Potted Feature for Decks & Patios

For smaller spaces, olive trees grow well in large pots, adding structure and greenery to decks, balconies, and patios.Best For: Urban homeowners and designers working with compact spaces.Potting Tip: Use a well-draining mix and water regularly in summer to prevent drying out.Recommended Pot-Sized Olive Trees: Dwarf Olive Trees for Pots

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4. In Large-Scale Developments & Commercial Spaces

Developers and landscape architects often use olive trees in:

  • Apartment complexes & public spaces – for their durability and minimal maintenance.
  • Luxury resorts & wineries – to add a Mediterranean aesthetic.

Best For: Developers and commercial landscape projects.Example: A row of mature Manzanillo olive trees lining the entrance to a boutique winery in Marlborough.Recommended Large-Scale Olive Trees: Commercial Landscaping Olive Trees

How to Care for Olive Trees in New Zealand

Sun & Soil Needs

Full sun – at least 6-8 hours daily. Prefers free-draining soil – avoid heavy clay.

Watering

Minimal water once established – deep watering every 2-3 weeks in summer is sufficient.

Pruning

Light pruning in late winter or early spring to shape and remove deadwood.

Fertilising

Apply a slow-release fertiliser in early spring to support healthy growth.