18 January 2019

A decades-old macrocarpa tree in Titahi Bay is to be removed, after regular branches falling off were deemed a hazard to a nearby homeowner and users of a public walkway.

The large tree, outside 39 Terrace Road, is predominantly on land owned by Porirua City Council.

An inspection by professional arborcultural consultants Arbor lab last year noted the macrocarpa faced severe weather conditions regularly, that there was a history of branch failure, and ongoing maintenance of the tree would be expensive.

Arbor lab concluded the tree should be removed and replacement planting of rewa rewa, totara or northern rata should be carried out.

Porirua City Parks Manager Olivia Dovey says the tree is old and is reaching the end of its natural life.

Just weeks ago, a branch sheared off and landed in the deck of No 39, she said.

“Yes, the macrocarpa is a notable tree in the Bay, but we are getting to the point that it is dangerous, to the nearby homeowner and the public using the adjacent walkway to and from the beach,” she said.

“It’s not a decision we make easily, but the safety reasons are outweighing the other considerations.”

Ms Dovey said there will be a minimum of disruption to nearby homeowners as the tree is removed over three days, starting on Tuesday, 22 January.

It will be removed by contractors Arb Innovations and the cost will be about $8000.

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