Safety concerns prompt tree removal

A stand of about 25 pine trees in Rainbow Point Reserve will be removed in a bid to ensure the safety of the community.

Taupō District Council's Fences, Reserves and Dogs Committee made the decision to remove the trees at yesterday's meeting following safety concerns being raised by a neighbouring resident.

Council staff said the trees were alongside State Highway 1 and in poor condition. There was a lot of dead wood in their canopies and they deteriorated with every storm.

District manager of parks and open spaces John Ridd said if the trees were not removed, they could pose a risk to people and surrounding property. A replanting programme can take place in autumn and winter once the trees are removed, he said. The cost of removal would be minimal as it would be offset by value of the wood that could be sold.

Two cypress trees that pose a risk to graves in Settlers' Cemetery on Spa Road will also be removed. Mr Ridd told the committee the trees were planted after the construction of the cemetery and have no known historical significance.

It's always a difficult balance between retaining trees and the potential hazards they can cause, he said. In the case of Rainbow Point it is a matter of public safety and with the Settlers' Cemetery trees, the cultural and historical significance of these graves is paramount.

Although the trees were healthy, as they grew they would affect the graves, Mr Ridd said.

Work on the trees was expected to be carried out within the next month.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Lisa Nairne Communications Manager 07 376 0762 027 839 8410

Vicki Waterhouse Communications Advisor 07 376 0718 027 484 2549

Taupō District Council