Thohoyandou National Botanical Garden has expanded its picnic area by establishing approximately 2,000 square metres of lawn around the children’s play area and in front of the restaurant at visitor centre. This strategic development was designed to accommodate growing visitor numbers, enhance the beauty of the garden, and create a more family-friendly environment.
The additional open lawn now provides ample space for families and groups to host picnics, celebrations, and other social gatherings without worrying about overcrowding. Parents can relax while keeping a close eye on their children enjoying the nearby play area. In the near future, visitors will also be able to purchase meals from the restaurant and enjoy them just a few steps away on the newly established lawn.
Creating this welcoming space required careful planning and a great deal of teamwork. The project began with extensive site preparation, which involved removing concrete, bricks, rocks, and other construction debris that had been buried beneath the soil. Armed with picks, forks, and spades, staff worked tirelessly to clear the area before the soil could be prepared.
As the work progressed, it became evident that the site required rotavation to improve the soil structure. A TLB was brought in to loosen the compacted ground and transport additional soil to low-lying areas that required filling. Staff then levelled the uneven surface using wheelbarrows, spades, and rakes.
This proved to be one of the most demanding stages of the project. Dry soil formed large clumps that had to be broken down manually, while wet conditions turned parts of the site into muddy ground that was difficult to level. Demonstrating initiative and problem-solving skills, the team sourced soft, loose soil from a nearby housing development, enabling them to create a smooth and even surface for laying the lawn.
On the morning of the first lawn delivery, the team arrived to find the truck already waiting to be unloaded. Staff were divided into three well-coordinated groups: one team laid the lawn, another unloaded the truck, and a third transported the lawn by tractor and offloaded it at the picnic area. Under the guidance of the team leader, activities were carefully coordinated, ensuring that the work progressed efficiently throughout the two-week installation period.
The project also received strong support from management. The Garden Manager and other members of the management team stepped away from their office desks,
exchanged their formal attire for work suits, and worked alongside staff to help complete the project.
The success of this development was driven by exceptional teamwork, effective leadership, and the dedication of everyone involved. The presence of a committed team leader ensured that activities on site were well coordinated, allowing management to monitor progress while work continued smoothly and efficiently.
Today, the lawn is well established and already helping visitors create lasting memories. It provides a safe, comfortable, and attractive space where children can play and families can relax together. The expanded picnic area forms part of a growing family recreation zone that seamlessly connects the restaurant, children’s play area, and outdoor relaxation spaces into one inviting destination where visitors can enjoy quality time together while learning about biodiversity conservation.
This project demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration, strong leadership, and commitment. Garden management extends its sincere appreciation to every staff member who contributed to the project, many of whom worked beyond normal hours to ensure its successful completion. Their dedication has created a lasting improvement that will benefit visitors for many years to come.
Visitors are encouraged to experience the enhanced picnic area, enjoy the beautiful surroundings, and help keep the garden clean so that everyone can continue to enjoy this special space.