Even pump stations can look good

Kevin Kelly is the kind of Council employee people love to have visiting their neighbourhoods.

A foreman for pumping and maintenance, Kevin and his team create attractive gardens around sewerage and storm water pumping stations throughout the City and have picked up awards for their work.

"I work with the people living near the stations and I even try to bring nearby schools in to help. I often clear the sections and plant with the local environment in mind. And then I cover with bark to keep maintenance low."

The latest station to get the Kelly treatment is in Waimea Terrace, Beckenham. The next will be in Belgay Street, Riccarton.

Kevin has been with the former Christchurch Drainage Board and the current Waste Management Unit for a total 43 years. He has also won competition prizes for his home garden.