2025 Guide to the Different Types of Grass You Can Grow in New Zealand

A lush, green lawn is often the centerpiece of any outdoor space. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to enhance your backyard or a business owner seeking an inviting exterior, choosing the right grass for your lawn is essential. In New Zealand, with its diverse climate and terrain, selecting the best grass type for your needs can be a game-changer. 

Let’s dive into the different types of grass you can grow in New Zealand, their benefits, and how to maintain your grass for a stunning lawn year-round.

Understanding the Different Types of Grass

New Zealand’s climate varies from subtropical in the north to temperate in the south, which means the types of lawn grass you choose should align with the specific conditions of your region. Below, we’ll explore the most common grass types used for lawns, landscaping, and garden maintenance across the country.

1. Fescue Grass

Fescue grass is a versatile and popular choice for New Zealand lawns. There are several types of fescue grass, including:

• Tall Fescue –  Known for its drought resistance and ability to thrive in various soil types, tall fescue is ideal for areas with fluctuating rainfall.
• Fine Fescue – Perfect for cooler regions, fine fescue features a softer texture and thrives in shaded areas.

Benefits: Fescue grass is low-maintenance, stays green year-round in many areas, and is resistant to diseases.

Ideal Use: Great for residential lawns, parks, and areas with partial shade.

2. Ryegrass

Ryegrass is one of the most common types of lawn grass in New Zealand due to its rapid germination and durability.

Benefits: Ryegrass is wear-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas. It also establishes quickly, ensuring a lush lawn in no time.

Ideal Use: Perfect for sports fields, playgrounds, and family lawns.

3. Kikuyu Grass

Kikuyu grass is a hardy warm-season grass that thrives in New Zealand’s northern regions.

Benefits: Kikuyu is incredibly tough and grows aggressively, making it perfect for sunny areas. It’s also drought-tolerant and self-repairing, ensuring a long-lasting lawn.

Ideal Use: Ideal for coastal properties, farms, and sunny residential areas.

4. Buffalo Grass

Buffalo grass is another warm-season option, known for its broad leaves and excellent shade tolerance.

Benefits: Buffalo grass is soft underfoot, thrives in low-light conditions, and requires minimal watering once established.

Ideal Use: A great choice for family lawns and areas with partial shade.

5. Zoysia Grass

Zoysia grass is gaining popularity due to its ability to thrive in both warm and cooler climates.

Benefits: Zoysia is slow-growing, which reduces mowing frequency. It’s also drought-resistant and dense, preventing weeds from taking over.

Ideal Use: Best for premium residential lawns and ornamental gardens.

6. Wild Grass Varieties

If you’re interested in a more natural or low-maintenance look, types of wild grass can also be cultivated. These grasses are often native species that support biodiversity and require minimal care.

Benefits: Wild grasses are hardy, attract pollinators, and create a unique aesthetic for landscaping projects.

Ideal Use: Great for eco-friendly gardens, meadows, or rural properties.

Selecting the Right Grass for Your Lawn

Choosing the right types of grass for your lawn depends on several factors, including:

1. Climate – Northern regions suit warm-season grasses like kikuyu, while southern areas may require cool-season varieties like fescue or ryegrass.
2. Sunlight – Assess whether your lawn gets full sun, partial shade, or is mostly shaded.
3. Soil Type – Test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels to determine compatibility with different grass types.
4. Purpose – Consider how the lawn will be used. High-traffic areas require durable grass like ryegrass, while ornamental lawns benefit from slower-growing varieties like zoysia.

Planting Grass: Types of Grass Seeds for Lawns

Grass seeds are the most affordable way to establish a lawn. Popular options in New Zealand include:

• Blended Seeds –  Many lawn seed mixes combine ryegrass and fescue for a balance of durability and beauty.
• Specialty Seeds – Some mixes cater to specific needs, such as shade tolerance or drought resistance.
• Native Grass Seeds – Ideal for wild grass lawns or eco-friendly gardens.

When planting, prepare the soil by removing weeds, aerating the ground, and applying a starter fertilizer. Water regularly during the germination period for best results.

Lawn Maintenance for a Healthy, Lush Look

Once you’ve chosen and planted the right grass type, consistent garden maintenance is key to ensuring its longevity. Here are some tips:

1. Lawn Mowing – Regular mowing keeps your lawn healthy and prevents overgrowth. Use a professional lawn mowing service for the best results.
2. Watering – Water deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root growth. Morning watering is ideal to reduce evaporation.
3. Fertilizing – Apply a high-quality lawn fertilizer during the growing season to ensure your grass receives essential nutrients.
4. Weed Control – Remove weeds manually or use eco-friendly weed control solutions to keep your lawn pristine.
5. Aeration and Overseeding – Aerate your lawn annually to improve soil health and overseed to fill in bare patches.

The Role of Landscaping Services

For those seeking a truly stunning outdoor space, a professional landscaping service can take your lawn to the next level. From designing the perfect layout to choosing complementary plants and features, landscaping experts ensure your lawn is both functional and visually appealing.

Conclusion

Creating the perfect lawn in New Zealand begins with selecting the right type of grass for your unique environment and needs. Whether you prefer the durability of ryegrass, the elegance of fescue, or the low-maintenance appeal of wild grass, there are plenty of options to suit every homeowner or landscaper.

Once your lawn is established, regular garden maintenance, including mowing, fertilizing, and aeration, will keep it looking its best. If you’re short on time or need expert help, professional lawn mowing and landscaping services are here to assist.

For all your lawn care needs, look no further than Jim’s Mowing NZ. Our team of experts provides top-notch lawn mowing, garden maintenance, and landscaping services to ensure your outdoor spaces thrive. Call us today at 0800 454 654 to book your service and give your lawn the care it deserves!