Trees Poisoned, Stolen From Council Reserves

There's been a spate of incidents over summer with trees on Council reserves and land being poisoned, illegally trimmed or stolen.

"It's really disappointing to see that over the Christmas and New Year period we've had number of incidents across the District where perfectly healthy native trees have been poisoned, illegally trimmed, felled or dug up," says David Hammond, Thames-Coromandel District Council Chief Executive.

Incidents of tree felling, poisoning and illegal trimming usually occur in spring and summer, when there is a higher population on the Coromandel.

"We strive to maintain the Coromandel brand, which is about protecting and preserving our natural resources and biodiversity and we hope that our ratepayers, residents and visitors to our District will do the same," says Mr Hammond.

In one case a kauri was dug up and stolen from the WW1 Memorial Site in Whangamata, which is on Council reserve at the north entrance to the town. This site marks the battle of Le Quesnoy, which took place on 4 November 1918. Last year 122 native trees were planted at the Reserve to remember the 122 New Zealand troops who died in the battle.

"We will be planting a replacement tree, but we're at a loss as to understand why it was taken in the first place," says Mr Hammond.

The cost of replacing trees costs our Council thousands of dollars every year, which affects all residents and ratepayers.

"We consult with residents and talk to Community Boards about tree placement on our reserves and land so as not to impact on views and be more selective about where and what sort of trees are planted," says Mr Hammond.

If people have information on trees being damaged or destroyed they can contact our Customer Services team on 07 868 0200 or email csteam@tcdc.govt.nz

ENDS

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