Team Spotlight – Meet Dirk

March 24, 2026

Every nursery benefits from fresh eyes, new ideas and someone who’s willing to get stuck in from day one. Last year…

…that person was Dirk

Dirk joined us from Akkermans Nursery in the Netherlands, a family business with deep roots. That connection mattered to us. Easy Big Trees is a fourth‑generation family nursery, and there’s something grounding about working alongside someone who understands what it means to grow up in the rhythm of seasons, soil and long‑term care.

From the moment he arrived, Dirk brought a steady, practical approach to production and tree care. He had a natural feel for young trees, a calm way of working and a willingness to learn how things are done in New Zealand conditions. Unsurprisingly, he took a particular interest in our Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’, being a tree from his Native homeland. Appreciating the tidy form and reliability that make it such a consistent performer in landscapes here as well as Europe and around the world.

THUJA occidentalis Smaragd

Thuja occidentalis Smaragd 35L
5+ year old

Thuja occidentalis Smaragd 80L
7+ years old

80L 2m grade – the same as supplied to Walter Peak Station

Whether he was checking root systems, shifting stock or helping with planting demonstrations, Dirk carried himself with the quiet confidence of someone who has grown up around horticulture.

Dirk spent several months with us before heading off to continue his travels through other nurseries, learning different methods and seeing how growers around the world approach their craft. We appreciated his curiosity, his work ethic and the easy way he fitted into the team.

We’re sharing a short video of Dirk and Keiren demonstrating how to plant a tree, a simple job made better when done with care and the right technique.

Dirk’s time with us was brief but valuable. He added energy, skill and a global perspective to the nursery, and we’re glad to have been one stop on his journey through the wider world of trees.