Tree-top protester to spend birthday in court facing $20,000 reparations

Kauri tree-top protester Johno Smith will appear before the Waitakere District Court this morning for sentencing on a charge of willful trespass. Today is also Smith's 33rd birthday.

Smith spent thirteen days occupying the controversial Paturoa Road kauri in Titirangi late last year after property developers John Lenihan and Jane Greensmith sent contractors to fell the tree despite their earlier promise that it could stay.

At Smith’s last appearance earlier this month, Community Magistrate Lauolefale Lemalu adjourned the matter so a restorative justice meeting could take place between both parties.

“I took all steps required to undergo restorative justice with the Lenihan’s but they didn’t want to meet with me; instead they want $20,000 in reparations,” said Mr Smith.

“I was prepared from the start to accept the full consequences of the law for my actions but I think it’s ridiculous that property developers like Lenihan can be financially compensated in situations like this.

“I acted on behalf of the community's wishes to take a stand and ensure that the ancient kauri wasn’t cut down for excessive development.

“Watered down legislation means our trees aren’t being protected. We shouldn’t have to climb trees to save them, our laws should protect them. But communities will keep standing up for them if they have to and I’ll keep making a stand for what’s right,” Mr Smith said.

ENDS.

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