Once upon a time there was a magical tree that suffered horrendous damage from an evil weather spell cast by a dark sorceress. Along came a kind witch and her industrious minions, who, through the ultimate power of good, turned the dying tree into a beautiful fairy house, and they all lived happily ever after. Those minions were the Cut Above Sawmilling and Furniture team of Ollie Colling (left), Fawn White and Ben Millward, pictured sitting in the newly sculptured "fairy house" at the Botanical Gardens.
Once upon a time there was a magical tree that suffered horrendous damage from an evil weather spell cast by a dark sorceress. Along came a kind witch and her industrious minions, who, through the ultimate power of good, turned the dying tree into a beautiful fairy house, and they all lived happily ever after. Those minions were the Cut Above Sawmilling and Furniture team of Ollie Colling (left), Fawn White and Ben Millward, pictured sitting in the newly sculptured "fairy house" at the Botanical Gardens.
If you can’t find the fairies at the bottom of your garden, there’s a chance they may have headed to a new enchanted forest.
A handcrafted “fairy house” has been created at Gisborne Botanical Gardens from the remains of 90-year-old magnolia tree.
The house was expertly crafted from thestump of the tree – the rest of which was removed earlier this year after suffering severe damage during weather events.
The severely damaged magnolia tree that was removed, bar a large stump, which creative contractors turned into a "fairy house" at the Botanical Gardens. Photo / Chris Taewa
But rather than getting rid of it entirely, Gisborne District Council (GDC) staff saw an opportunity to transform the space into something imaginative and inviting for tamariki and visitors of all ages.
In a council statement, GDC play advocate Katie Kennedy said the fairy house was already proving to be a popular addition to the gardens, bringing smiles and sparking curiosity.
“This is a great example of how we can repurpose natural materials and create something magical for our community,” Kennedy said. “It’s a small addition with a big impact.
“The fairy house represents creativity, community and the magic that happens when nature and play come together.”
Crafted by local contractor Cut Above Sawmilling and Furniture, the fairy house features a carved redwood roof and a chimney made from black walnut.
Skilled staff from Cut Above Sawmilling and Furniture at work turning the magnolia tree into a "fairy house".
The intricate design and natural materials reflect the spirit of nature play and creative exploration.
The installation is part of the council’s 2025 playground improvement programme, introducing nature play elements across parks and reserves throughout the district.
Those features are designed to encourage imaginative play and connect children with the natural environment.
