New seawall to protect century-old pohutukawa

April 15, 2004

North Shore City Council will next month extend a seawall at the southern end of Devonport's Narrow Neck beach to protect a clifftop pohutukawa tree near Takapuna Head.

The native tree, believed to be at least 100 years old, is currently in good health, but its roots are becoming increasingly exposed.

The council's parks operations manager, Mike Weaver, says the new seawall is needed to ensure the pohutukawa remains healthy.

"Over the years the roots have become exposed both by natural erosion and children playing around it," he says.

"It is a beautiful old tree and we need to make sure we keep it that way. Extending the seawall will stop further erosion and ensure the roots are protected."

The council expects to begin work on the $80,000 project next month (May).

The project will extend the existing seawall a further 25 metres around the base of the cliffs at the southern end of the beach. The wall will be built out of blue stone and in places will be more than two metres high.

ENDS

© Scoop Media