"One day a few vehicles came screeching to a halt when Mark was out in the garden – they saw him lying on the ground and were very concerned, but he was actually just trying to see if his grass seed was coming up! But we do often get people stopping, even in cars, to tell us how beautiful they think our garden is."
In the Before and After category, second and third places went to Abby Hoare (Willowpark Rd), and Amy Shanks (Pattison Rd), receiving $1000 and $500 cash prizes respectively.
The Open Category saw Abby Golden in Riverslea Rd win, pocketing the $2000 cash prize.
The Open Category recognised people who had a consistently beautiful garden.
The awards, which celebrate people who help keep Hastings beautiful by taking pride in their properties, were announced last night at a function at the Hastings District Council building.
Ms Golden and her family have lived in their home for five years now, having built on the "really good bones" the house had when they purchased it.
"We really just had to put our own personal touch on it. The house already had character, and, as our first family home, we wanted something safe and secure, with the white picket fence.
"Homes hold so many loving memories - that's why we have the heart on the door – it's so nice to come home to."
Second place in the Open Category went to Ruby Atkins, for her Louie St front garden, while third place went to Cara Hart for her Burnett St property.
They received cash prizes of $1000 and $500 respectively.
Twelve property owners were highly commended and received vouchers.
