Now in its second year, the World’s Ugliest Lawn competition rewards lawn owners for not watering their grass and flowerbeds. It is part of a global initiative to save water.
Leisa Elliot’s winning lawn in Birdlings Flat, about 45km south of Christchurch, is subject to strong wind and little rainfall.
Plentiful cacti, well suited to the conditions, surround the patchy yellow lawn.
"I live in a small coastal community,” Elliott told The Guardian.
"Our drinking water is pumped from a well in nearby Kaitorete Spit. In my mind, drinking water is drinking water, not watering-the-lawn water."
“In a region known for its fierce coastal winds and low rainfall, Leisa’s lawn is a powerful statement."
The contest began in Gotland, Sweden, as a stunt to promote water conservation on the island.
The competition’s website says it is a way to inspire positive change and show sustainability doesn’t have to be boring.
"I have aimed at creating a garden that primarily looks after itself, making its own natural rhythm," Elliot told The Guardian.
"Mother Nature does the watering here.
"When the rain comes, the transformation is stunning. An oasis after a desert is a sight to behold."
She said many birds congregate by the pond, including bellbirds, fantails, silver eyes, finches, blackbirds and starlings.
Elliott told The Guardian she found out about the competition in February through a morning breakfast show.
“We were experiencing above-normal summer temperatures and my lawn sure fitted the competition bill.”
The jury, composed of Gotland residents, voted unanimously for Elliott’s lawn.
“Her lawn may not win beauty contests, but it wins hearts for its message of sustainability and adaptability.
“The ground, parched and textured by the elements, is dotted with natural, weather-carved indentations and adorned with the muted colours of a landscape that thrives without human interference.”
