‘Sign of the Bellbird’

Status | On-Going

Type | Community Development

Perched high above Lyttelton Harbour along Canterbury’s iconic Summit Road, the Sign of the Bellbird carpark was transformed into a subtle yet powerful memorial landscape honouring John Jamieson, founder of The Summit Road Society. NKLA worked alongside Graham Densem Landscape Architect and Davie Lovell-Smith to reimagine the site as more than just a place to park—but as a place to pause, reflect, and take in the incredible views.

From initial concept through to developed design, construction, and final implementation, NKLA helped shape the project’s character. Traditional stone walling was used creatively to form a viewing platform that frames the surrounding landscape without dominating it—delivering impact through simplicity and restraint.

We’re proud that the site recently received a Civic Trust Award, recognising the sensitivity and strength of its design. Special thanks to Graham Densem for the collaboration and to Andy for his technical expertise in bringing the design to life.