The New Zealand Gardens Trust awarded Trott’s Garden six stars (its highest category) and designated it as a NZ Garden of International Significance, as it is considered to be outstanding for its horticultural value in plant material, cultivation, design, construction, and maintenance. Following on from this accolade, Alan himself was awarded a Queen’s Service Medal in 2017 for his services to horticulture.
But like his garden, Alan felt the need for a change in pace was approaching. A group of local people talked to him about his future plans for the garden and the idea of retaining it for the local community was born. The Trott’s Garden Charitable Trust was created and took over the garden in September 2017.
In Sept 2019, The Trott’s Garden Charitable Trust made the decision to open its gates to the general public. To help with the upkeep of gardens and surrounding areas, it was later decided there would be a minimal entry fee of $5.00 for the community to visit these award winning gardens.