The Wilds’ new features include water channels, flower beds, and sculptures made by the artist who has brought the park to life!
Johannesburg, South Africa (15 October 2025) – The Wilds in Houghton, which recently celebrated its 100th year, has had yet another upgrade thanks to the tireless efforts of local artist James Delaney. For years, he’s poured his heart into restoring the park, turning it into one of Joburg’s most loved public spaces.
The latest project began with a problem.
Old underground pipes carrying water between Monkey Lawn Pond and Giraffe Lawn Pond had become clogged with roots, rust and debris over time. It was decided that the best solution would be to ‘daylight’ the water and bring it above ground.
This would also give visitors something extra to enjoy with the peaceful sound of flowing water.
The community has chipped in to bring the new channel, ponds and rockery to life.
Mr. Delaney has rallied forces and supporters have donated funds, a hardware shop supplied tools and materials free of charge, and a local nursery contributed hundreds of aloes and indigenous plants to fill the beds around the stream.
Families pitched in too, joining Saturday planting sessions wielding spades and buckets. Compost, gravel, reinforcing materials and even ‘pet rocks’ were dropped off to help the project along.
Landscapers and builders have spent months bringing these wonderful new elements to life, which are now in their final stages. The channel winds through the park with stone walls and small stone bridges, and new ponds are edged with flowers, shrubs, and a hundred aloes planted in honour of The Wilds’ centenary.
Adding to the park’s special growing collection of metal sculptures by Delaney himself are two new works placed along the stream. Pop in for a visit to read the words inscribed on the boulders…
Now, with the last touches underway, the water is almost ready to be switched on!
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