Artificial Turf vs Natural Grass in NZ: Myths, Misconceptions & the Truth
What Kiwis Really Need to Know Before Choosing a Lawn
We get it—choosing between artificial turf and natural grass can feel like a decision between convenience and authenticity. And depending on who you ask, you’ll hear very strong opinions on both sides.
But the truth is, there’s a lot of misinformation floating around. From heat worries to drainage concerns, we’ve heard it all. As a company that installs both premium ready lawn and artificial grass, we're here to give you the facts—Wellington-style.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the biggest myths vs facts, so you can make a confident decision that suits your home, lifestyle, and property conditions.
❌ MYTH 1: Artificial turf gets “too hot to use”
Truth:
Yes, turf does warm up in direct sun—especially black-backed or low-quality versions. But modern self-cooling turf (like our Cool 30mm and Cool 35mm options) are engineered for heat resistance, often performing better than paving or decking.
Tip:
Artificial lawns rarely hit unsafe temps here. If it’s a concern, a quick hose-down cools the surface in seconds.
❌ MYTH 2: Natural grass is always cheaper
Truth:
Natural lawn can be cheaper to install—especially if you're seeding. But the long-term costs add up: mowing, watering, spraying, overseeding, pest treatments, and time. Over 10 years, turf often works out cheaper.
Tip:
With water metering in place and unpredictable summers, turf’s low-maintenance nature is proving cost-effective for many local homeowners.
❌ MYTH 3: Turf ruins your soil
Truth:
A properly installed turf system is breathable and drainable. It doesn't suffocate soil when the sub-base is engineered correctly. Most Wellington installs use GAP 20 with drainage layers and geotextile cloth for long-term performance.
Tip:
Turf is often a solution because of soil issues—like clay, poor drainage, or shallow topsoil.
❌ MYTH 4: Turf is bad for pets
Truth:
Modern artificial grass is pet-safe, lead-free, and easy to clean. Urine drains through, droppings lift easily, and you avoid the patchy burn marks seen on natural lawn.
Tip:
Pet-friendly turf areas are one of our most popular installations—and they're way easier to manage than lawn around dogs.
❌ MYTH 5: Turf looks fake
Truth:
Old-school turf used to scream “plastic mat.” But not anymore. Products like our Natural 35mm feature bi-coloured blades, realistic thatch, and wavy yarn technology for a soft, natural look—even up close.
Tip:
From the street, visitors often can’t tell the difference. We’ve installed front lawns that draw compliments because they look so real.
❌ MYTH 6: Turf doesn’t drain
Truth:
This is only true if the installer cuts corners. Proper base compaction, drainage prep, and high-permeability backing are what make turf perform well—even in Wellington downpours.
Tip:
We install using drainage cloths and permeable crushed aggregate, designed for local rainfall. We also add extra fall/slopes if needed.
❌ MYTH 7: Real lawn is easier to replace or repair
Truth:
Yes, patching lawn is simple if the issue is localised. But recurring problems (like grass grub, shade, or compaction) often mean full care systems like our Healthy Lawns Program. And that adds up over time.
Tip:
Artificial turf avoids the cycle of reseed-repair-repeat—especially in shaded or hard-use zones.
❌ MYTH 8: Turf doesn’t last
Truth:
High-quality turf systems typically last 15–20 years with minimal upkeep. All our turf products come with 8-year manufacturer warranties, and install work is backed by a 12-month workmanship guarantee.
Tip:
Most failures we see come from DIY installs or budget turf from general suppliers. Get it done once, and it lasts.
❌ MYTH 9: You can't mix real grass and turf
Truth:
Actually, you can—and many of our clients do! You might use turf in a dog run, play area, or shaded courtyard, and still maintain a natural lawn out front or in the garden zones.
Tip:
Hybrid landscapes are growing in popularity, and we can design seamless transitions that look amazing.
✅ The Bottom Line
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But here’s what we can say:
Turf is a smart solution for shade, wear, pets, rentals, and low-maintenance lifestyles
Natural grass is great if you love gardening, have good soil and drainage, and enjoy the process
You don’t have to choose just one
The biggest myth? That you have to figure it out alone
Need an Honest Opinion?
We install both real lawn and artificial turf—so we’re not trying to push one over the other. Our team will look at your space, budget, and lifestyle before offering the best recommendation for your needs.
0800 MY LAWN
info@justgrassnz.com
Servicing Wellington, Kapiti, Hutt Valley, Porirua and further afield for certain projects.
