General Questions
Q: What is aquascaping?
Q: What is aquascaping?
A: Aquascaping is the art of designing beautiful underwater landscapes within aquariums. It involves arranging plants, rocks, driftwood, and other materials to create aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking environments.
Q: Why should I start aquascaping?
Q: Why should I start aquascaping?
A: Aquascaping is a fulfilling hobby that blends creativity with biology. It offers a peaceful connection to nature, reduces stress, and enhances the visual appeal of your living space.
Q: What are the main types of aquascaping styles?
Q: What are the main types of aquascaping styles?
A: The primary styles include Dutch Aquarium, Jungle Aquarium, Iwagumi Aquarium, and Nature Aquarium. Each style has its unique design principles and visual characteristics.
Getting Started
Q: What do I need to start aquascaping?
Q: What do I need to start aquascaping?
A: Essential items include a tank, a reliable filtration system, appropriate lighting, substrate, aquatic plants, and potentially CO2 and nutrients for plant health. Starter kits that include these basics are also available.
Q: How do I choose the right plants for my aquascape?
Q: How do I choose the right plants for my aquascape?
A: Consider the lighting, CO2 levels, and water parameters of your aquarium. Some plants thrive in high-light, high-CO2 environments, while others are suitable for low-light conditions. Research or consult with experts to select the best plants for your setup.
Q: Can I keep fish in an aquascaped tank?
Q: Can I keep fish in an aquascaped tank?
A: Yes, fish can coexist in aquascaped tanks. Choose species that are compatible with your plants and overall design, such as tetras, rasboras, and dwarf gouramis.
Maintenance
Q: How do I maintain an aquascaped tank?
Q: How do I maintain an aquascaped tank?
A: Regular maintenance involves performing water changes, trimming plants, cleaning the substrate, and ensuring the filtration system functions properly. Adding CO2 and nutrients will help maintain plant health.
Q: How often should I perform water changes?
Q: How often should I perform water changes?
A: Typically, a 20-30% water change should be performed weekly to maintain optimal water quality and remove toxins.
Q: What should I do if I have algae problems?
Q: What should I do if I have algae problems?
A: Algae control involves maintaining balanced lighting, CO2, and nutrient levels. Regular cleaning and introducing algae-eating fish or invertebrates can also help manage algae growth.
Products and Services
Q: Do you offer custom aquascaping design services?
Q: Do you offer custom aquascaping design services?
A: Yes, we provide custom design services to help you create the perfect aquascape. Our team of experts will work with you to design a unique and beautiful aquatic environment. Contact us for more details and to schedule a consultation.
Q: Can I purchase aquascaping supplies online?
Q: Can I purchase aquascaping supplies online?
A: Absolutely. Our extensive range of aquascaping products, including plants, substrates, and equipment, are available for purchase on our website. We offer shipping throughout New Zealand and internationally.
Q: What shipping options do you offer?
Q: What shipping options do you offer?
A: We aim to ship all orders promptly. Delivery times vary based on the shipping method and destination. While we strive for timely deliveries, The Aquascape Shop is not responsible for any delays, losses, or damages caused by the shipping carrier. Shipping fees are non-refundable.
Q: Where do you ship?
Q: Where do you ship?
A: We ship throughout New Zealand, including rural areas. Freight costs are calculated at checkout, and delivery times will vary. Typically, orders are dispatched within one day. For international orders to Australia, please contact us for a shipping quote as we work on automating rates. Note that only dry goods are shipped to Australia; live plants and bulky, fragile items like aquariums are excluded. We are not responsible for any customs issues.
Q: What courier methods do you use?
Q: What courier methods do you use?
A: We utilize New Zealand Post and Aramex for shipping within New Zealand.
Q: Do you ship fish tanks?
Q: Do you ship fish tanks?
A: We can deliver fish tanks within Auckland. For large tanks, we do not ship outside of Auckland due to their fragility. Please contact us to confirm rates and receive a quote.
Q: Do you offer buy now, pay later options?
Q: Do you offer buy now, pay later options?
A: Yes, we offer buy now, pay later options such as Afterpay and Klarna. You can choose these payment methods at checkout to split your purchase into manageable installments.
Q: Do you offer price matching?
Q: Do you offer price matching?
A: Seen a very similar product elsewhere for the same price? Contact us to see if we can price match. We strive to offer competitive prices and great value for our customers.
Pick-Up
Q: Can I pick up my order?
Q: Can I pick up my order?
A: Yes, orders can be picked up, usually within 3-5 hours, but it could take up to 24 hours depending on stock availability. We will notify you of any delays. If you have urgent needs, please contact us for prompt assistance.
Returns and Refunds
Q: What is your return policy?
Q: What is your return policy?
A: We want you to be satisfied with your purchase. If you receive a damaged or defective product, please contact us within 7 days to request a return or exchange. We do not offer returns or refunds for change of mind. All returned items must be in their original packaging and unused condition.
Q: Do you offer a guarantee for aquatic plants?
Q: Do you offer a guarantee for aquatic plants?
A: Yes, we offer a Dead on Arrival Guarantee for aquatic plants, including tissue culture plants, unless they are on clearance. Please contact us within 24 hours if your plants arrive in poor condition.
Payment and Billing
Q: What payment methods do you accept?
Q: What payment methods do you accept?
A: We accept a variety of payment methods including credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Afterpay, and Klarna. For in-store purchases, we also accept cash and EFTPOS.
Q: How do I use a discount code?
Q: How do I use a discount code?
A: During checkout, you will find a field to enter your discount code. Simply type in the code and click apply. The discount will be reflected in your total amount.
Q: Can I get a refund if I paid with a gift card?
Q: Can I get a refund if I paid with a gift card?
A: Refunds for purchases made with a gift card will be issued as store credit to your account.
Order Issues
Q: How can I track my order?
Q: How can I track my order?
A: Once your order is shipped, you will receive a confirmation email with a tracking number. You can use this number on the carrier’s website to track your shipment.
Q: What should I do if I receive the wrong item?
Q: What should I do if I receive the wrong item?
A: If you receive the wrong item, please contact us immediately with your order number and details of the incorrect item. We will arrange for the correct item to be sent to you and provide instructions for returning the incorrect one.
Q: My order arrived damaged, what should I do?
Q: My order arrived damaged, what should I do?
A: If your order arrives damaged, please contact us within 7 days of receipt with photos of the damaged item and packaging. We will work with you to resolve the issue promptly.
Contact and Support
Q: How can I contact you for support?
Q: How can I contact you for support?
A: You can reach us by phone at 022 420 4229, email at Sales@aquascapeshop.com, or through our social media channels on Facebook and Instagram.
Q: Do you offer workshops or classes?
Q: Do you offer workshops or classes?
A: Yes, we will be looking to regularly host workshops and classes on various aquascaping topics. Check our website, social media or give us a call for more information.