Another area along driveway.

I always try to plant some favourites outside my windows and evergreens to brighten up the dull winter days stuck indoors.

Is this the RHPs you were speaking about in Scotsgran's post?
If you are looking out onto this area, then you defo want something nice to look at and not cars :))))
You could begin by putting in a few choice plants and filling the gaps with annuals or cheap perennials which would serve a purpose until the others spread themselves out a bit.
This area would make a lovely garden :)

How about some chaenomeles. They come in lots of colours and are evergreen shrubs which you can prune and shape as youwish. Hebes have to be a must in New Zeland as well. Again lovely evergreen foliage and lotsof colourful flowers over a long period. As Scottish says add annuals or perennials while your ideas develop.

Thankyou for the great suggestions everybody. Originally, when we first moved in, I had earmarked that area for a water-feature of some kind ... maybe a small pond surrounded with lush appropriate planting, but have decided a water-feature would be better placed in the back or side area, which have high fences all around. I would worry constantly that a child might come through the picket gate & fall in, as we have a primary school just two houses along. I will have to look up chaenomeles, Scotsgran, as not familiar with them. I do like Hebes & they grow quickly over this way. annual & perennials are always good to work with, Scottish, so I can imagine there will definitely be some included into this area ... & yes, that is the RHP I mentioned. Needs a trim.

Good luck...a terrific canvas to work with...:)))

hi, dwyllis, just go with the flow ,you will see the garden you want in your head and when others see areas of bare land you will see beautiful flower beds,and it will happen, trust me. you will make mistakes, make lots of gardening friends, and in the end you will make a beautiful garden, i look foward to seeing it. all the best joe,