The Conservatories at the Bason, with the exception of the Larsen Orchid House, were funded by a bequest from Stanley and Blanche Bason. However, during the 1970s and 1980s, inflation was rampant, and the final design had to be downgraded in size from the original plans. They are however still iconic features, with their bold brick styling. 

At the time they were constructed, 1980, the curator at the Gardens was Ross Turton, who had previously worked in Parks and Reserves in Hastings. He was a dedicated and skilled employee in many ways; during the time he was living in the Homestead, he nurtured peafowl. They were fed over by the work compound (near the main carpark), to discourage them from making a mess in the Homestead Garden. 

Ross was responsible for much of the layout of the newly built conservatories. Some aspects of this have been changed over the years, as the result of deterioration of retaining walls etc. However, one part that remains is the waterfall and pool in the glasshouse nearest the carpark (the Blanche House, dedicated to Blanche Bason). 

I was Horticultural Officer for the then Wanganui City Council at the time. Ross, myself and a driver took a Council truck over to the Rangitikei River to find suitable rocks for a feature. The first locations visited had only small rocks, not to Ross’s requirements. However, eventually we came across large character-filled rocks at Utiku (south of Taihape). Ross selected rocks and they were duly brought back to the Gardens. It is hard to imagine this process being acceptable today! 

I had no idea how they were going to be placed to create a meaningful water feature, but Ross knew what he was doing. The rocks were placed in a way that created an intermediate pool, which then flowed down to the fishpond at the bottom. A small bridge was built across the pool; Ross used manuka stakes for a safety rail; however, in the intervening years they have needed to be removed. 

The only downside to the construction was how the rocks have moved slightly over time, resulting in leaks requiring repairs. Also, the pump has periodically required replacement. 

However overall, the waterfall feature is a remarkable construction looking both natural and aesthetic. The deep sonorous sound of the water cascading is restful, and the humidity created is great for exotic plants. I suggest that you take note of the materials and the way the movement of water has been formed, next time you visit the Bason.