I don't live in NZ, so I don't know what will grow well there, but I've had a few balcony gardens… It really depends on how much sun you get more than anything else. You can grow a LOT in containers on even a small balcony especially if you get creative with vertical space. I've heard that if you get direct sunlight you can even grow melons/winter squash if you get a strong trellis for them and support the fruit in slings. And there are compact container-friendly versions of summer squash and so on.

The problem is that a lot of the times balconies don't get a lot of sun because they can be shaded by the balcony above them and by other buildings. So you might only be able to grow things that are okay with part or full shade. When I had a fairly shady balcony I could grow most herbs. Basil and cilantro didn't do well but oregano, rosemary, chives, that sort of thing did fine. In part shade I was able to grow cherry tomatoes but not full sized tomatoes. I grew bush beans and got a decent harvest, so I assume I would have had good luck with pole beans (which might have been better suited to a patio with limited horizontal space). I didn't try to grow lettuce but I hear it will do well in those conditions.

On the other hand if you get a patio with plenty of sun then you can probably grow some compact or trellised version of whatever interests you. It's not that different from growing in raised beds after all!

Thank you Oakandsage,

I had not thought about shade from higher up balconies. Means I have one more criteria to add to choose between available properties.

First place I bought had pumpkins growing over the grape trellis. Huge big pumpkins. The place had been empty for a while. But it amazed me how they could hang there with no spa rant problem.

You reminded me of that, and the use of vertical space. Thank you. :)

I agree containers are the way to go. Look for South facing patios and windows. Those will get the most sun generally. Also consider rooftops if flat.

@growurban: actually, New Zealand being in the southern hemisphere, the sunny balconies will be north facing. Common mistake :)

yeah that was one of the cool things living in the Northern hemisphere these last few years. No converting in my head, recipe sites had recipes for the right season featured, gardening tips also were for the right season. I have enjoyed that bit :D

Thanks guys for the tips :)