IMO a big challenge for a northern gardener is weed control; plants those of us further south find kept in reasonable check by cooler winter temperatures live the life of Riley in the north. Wild ginger, smilax, watsonia - all rampant weeds.

Think about growing macadamias and citrus, mountain pawpaw, and bananas. Check out the various heritage plants available in your area, too. And consider using plants such as Clivia and Hibiscus and Tecomanthe out in the garden directly.

If the soil in your area is volcanic in origin - be sure to either wear gloves or use barrier cream to prevent skin cracks.

Expect some fruit and veg varieties to be prone to botrytis and other minor plagues earlier than you'd like.

Glasshouse: hmm. Any ambitions to export orchid flowers to Japan?

I've never lived and gardened in Northland but grew up in Auckland which is similar.

From Dargaville, it isn't far to get to the native forest with the giant kauri (Agathis australis) trees. I recommend a visit - they are fantastic. Not that you will be growing kauri in your greenhouse. But yes, orchids do well. So do many ferns.

Also, you won't be too far from Koanga Gardens. They are a big organic garden and sell heirloom seed varieties, mainly vegetables.

I'll try and think of some other favourites from the north.

I'm enjoying all the fruit etc... but the main difference is the SPEED at which things grow! That and the flipping possums eating last year's veggie patch over night (grrrr).

good luck!

Steph