Artificial vs Natural Grass: Real Case Studies from Wellington Lawns
Which Works Best, and Why It Depends on the Lawn (and the Owner)
As a lawn solutions company that installs both real turf and high-performance artificial grass, we’ve heard it all:
“Artificial turf is too fake-looking.”
“Real grass is cheaper in the long run.”
“Turf gets too hot for pets.”
“Natural grass just doesn’t survive in my yard.”
The truth? It’s not about which is better, but rather—what’s right for you. And the best way to see that is through real Wellington stories. In this article, we’re sharing 5 true-to-life lawn makeovers—each with different goals, challenges, and results.
Case Study #1: The Mower Haters – Suburban Family in Johnsonville
Challenge:
Two working parents, three kids, a Labrador, and a shady back lawn that turned into a muddy mess every winter. Mowing was hard, weeds took over, and the dog’s urine left yellow spots everywhere.
Solution:
We replaced 70m² of struggling lawn with Cool 35mm artificial turf, laid over compacted base with drainage cloth and silica sand infill.
Result:
No more mowing, spraying, or reseeding
Easy pet clean-up
Looks great year-round, even in low light
Total install took 3 days
8-year product warranty, and still spotless 14 months later
“We didn’t want to be lawn slaves. Best decision we’ve made.” — Sarah M.
Case Study #2: The Gardener – Ngaio Character Villa
Challenge:
A garden enthusiast wanted a classic lawn feel. They had time and interest to maintain it, and a budget to invest in premium soil and irrigation.
Solution:
We laid Tall Fescue Ready Lawn over nutrient rich, organic topsoil with a slow-release fertilizer base. A subsurface irrigation line was installed on a timer and tuned for summer drought conditions.
Result:
Lush, walkable lawn with that "real" feel
Responds beautifully to seasonal care
Compliments surrounding planting beds and native garden
Added property value and curb appeal
“I love the santuatry it’s created.” — John C.
Case Study #3: Wear & Tear Woes – Kindy in the Hutt Valley
Challenge:
A preschool with 40+ kids daily and a play lawn that wore down into dust and bare patches. Water restrictions were in place and health & safety concerns meant they couldn't climb the trees. They needed a safe, clean and robust surface.
Solution:
We installed certified Classic 40 artificial turf with certified shock pad, both meeting NZ playground standards.
Result:
No mud, mess, or mowing
Safer surface for play (critical fall height compliant)
Lasts 15-20+ years with minimal care and maintenance
Staff love the cleanliness and consistency
“It transformed the whole centre. The kids are safer and clean up is certainly easier when it’s wet outside.” — Head Caregiver
Case Study #4: Pet-Proof Lawn – Lifestyle Block in Churton Park
Challenge:
Two border collies, lots of digging, mud in the house and urine damage on a 120m², fenced, backyard lawn. Owner tried reseeding and patching with no luck and just let if fall apart.
Solution:
Installed Natural 35mm turf in dog zone only, kept rest of the lawn as real grass. A hybrid lawn! Turf installed with extra infill and securing around edges.
Result:
No yellow spots or digging
Easier to clean
Natural grass areas now protected
Owner gets the best of both worlds
“It's a relief! The dogs don’t bring mud inside and it always looks top notch!” — Craig T.
Case Study #5: Clean-Cut Commercial – Architectural Designer in Upper Hutt
Challenge:
A commercial premises with a open rear courtyard constantly filled with weeds overlooked by a client meeting room. Real lawn died in winter and looked patchy in summer. Never mowed.
Solution:
60m² of Cool 30mm turf installed flush to the final design level of the court yard. Low-profile turf matched modern aesthetic.
Result:
No weeding or trimming required
Instantly tidy, year-round
Boosts business appearance
“Clientd notice how tidy it is and ask who installed it. We're happy to recommed your team!” — Business Owner
The Takeaway
As you can see, the right lawn solution depends on a lot more than looks:
Foot traffic? → Turf might win
Love gardening? → Natural is for you
Kids, pets, or tenants? → Turf's resilience shines
Shaded, steep, or soggy soil? → Turf solves problems grass can’t
Want something alive and eco-friendly? → Real lawn is still the classic
We help clients across the Wellington region make the best choice for their property, lifestyle, and budget.
Need Help Choosing the Right Lawn?
Whether you want ready lawn, artificial turf, or both—we’re here to help. No pushy sales. Just good advice and quality work.
Call 0800 MY LAWN
Email info@justgrassnz.com
Servicing Greater Wellington, Hutt Valley, Kapiti Coast, Porirua and further afield for specific projects.
