A Christchurch backyard created for family life, with Codie Taylor

Codie Taylor wanted to create a backyard that felt like an extension of home. Somewhere the whole family naturally gravitated towards at the end of the day. Not just a court, not just a landscaped backyard, but a space designed for connection, fun, and everyday living.

2026

It starts with how the space feels

Between the demands of professional rugby and busy family life, Codie Taylor wanted to create a backyard that felt like an extension of home. Somewhere the whole family naturally gravitated towards at the end of the day. Not just a court, not just a landscaped backyard, but a space designed for connection, fun, and everyday living.

A place where the kids could run barefoot, shoot hoops, kick a ball around, and spend time together without the space needing to be managed or maintained.

What’s been created is simple in idea, but powerful in outcome. A backyard that feels welcoming, relaxed, and somewhere you genuinely don’t want to leave.

Designed for Christchurch living

Backyards in Christchurch take a beating. From dry spells through summer to cold, frosty mornings in winter, and heavy use in between, it’s a tough environment for natural grass to hold up.

The existing lawn couldn’t keep up. It wore out, thinned out, and required constant upkeep just to stay usable. Moving to artificial grass wasn’t just about improving how the space looked, it was about creating something that performs consistently year-round.

That consistency has changed how the space is used.

There’s now a natural rhythm to the backyard. The court draws family and friends in, while the surrounding lawn softens everything, creating space to relax, entertain, and let the kids move freely.

It’s a space that shifts easily from quiet mornings to more active afternoons, without ever feeling overdesigned.

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A space that balances performance and everyday life

A key part of this project was creating a space that didn’t feel like a compromise between activity and comfort. Using a combination of Eden 40mm landscape turf and Sportsplay’s Stamina 15mm sports turf, the backyard brings together areas for both movement and downtime. The court creates a place for energy and play, while the surrounding lawn provides a softer, more relaxed setting for everyday use.

Underfoot, it feels comfortable and easy. Visually, it’s clean, consistent, and always ready. It’s the kind of space that invites you out without thinking about it. Over time, what stands out most is how little it asks of you. There’s no need to manage the lawn or plan around it. It simply holds up and stays usable, day after day. For Codie and his family, it comes back to simplicity. A space that works in the background, so they can focus on spending time together in it.

Eden – 40mm

Natural Looking Artificial Grass.

Eden 40mm artificial grass delivers premium softness and a lush natural appearance. Perfect for family backyards and high end residential landscapes across New Zealand.

Eden 40mm is our most luxurious artificial turf, designed for homeowners who want the ultimate natural look and feel.

  • 40 mm pile height for a soft, luxurious feel underfoot

    Multi tone yarn for a realistic, Central Otago inspired appearance

    UV stabilised & heat resistant fibres for long term colour retention

    CoolTouch technology, keeps the surface cooler on hot days

    Envirofill® antibacterial infill optional, ideal for pets and children

    Best for: Family lawns | Show homes | Courtyards | Dog Areas

    Lifestyle Lawns, clean, green and always pristine.

Eden in Action

Stamina – 15mm

High performance turf designed for gyms, sled tracks and multi-sport courts. Customisable in multiple colours to suit any space.

  • Fibre Type: Short, dense fibres built for traction, strength, and endurance

    Pile Height: 15mm for a firm, responsive surface underfoot

    Performance: Ideal for sled pushes, sprints, and functional fitness training

    Durability: Hardwearing, non directional turf that resists wear and tear

    Infill: No infill required (optional light infill for specific applications)

    Custom Options: Multiple colour choices available by order to match your brand or zone layout

    Installation: Fully glued for a seamless, professional finish

    Low Maintenance: Easy to clean, no mowing or watering required

Learn more

Order a sample today and explore different textures and colours at home to find the option that best suits your space and outdoor needs.

Need help choosing?

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Modern Kiwi Backyard Design