His wife Kathy helps out once a week with buying their garden decoration stock, and his brothers and sons also have some involvement, so it’s still a family business.
They have 1.2 hectares of production land where they grow all their own produce, and Lance says their point of difference is the beautiful environment.
It’s inviting, with no chain-link fences and an amazing view of the mountains, which attracts a lot of tourists.
“It’s a competitive industry.”
Another one of their points of difference is the advice they give – they’re all experienced gardeners.
Lance says he hasn’t had to advertise for employees in 20 years because gardeners know gardeners and they often come to him.
“We have a great team. Everyone’s here because they want to be.”
Part of the garden centre. Photo / David Haxton
People come from all over the Wellington region and beyond to visit Harrisons.
It’s well-known worldwide too. In 2004 Lance hosted the International Garden Centre Association at Harrisons and had more than 300 international garden centre delegates attend.
He wants to be able to supply people with all aspects of gardening, so the business sells everything from decorations and equipment to fully grown plants.
