Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill planting symbol of new Auckland

Mayor Len Brown describes the agreement today that a tree will once again stand on the tihi/summit of Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill as an impressive symbol of what can be achieved in the new Auckland.

The announcement was made on the summit of the maunga after the decision was made by the Tūpuna Maunga o Tāmaki Makaurau Authority at their hui this morning.

Speaking on the maunga, Len Brown said: “Mangakiekie/One Tree Hill is an icon for Aucklanders no matter where they live, no matter what their background.”

“The loss of the tree was a symbol of what divided us. The return of a tree is a symbol of what unites us.

“Aucklanders have been waiting for this moment for 15 years. Five years after the uniting of Auckland and a year after the establishment of the Maunga Authority, we will once again have an iconic symbol of what brings all together.”

Planting will take place in winter 2016 during Matariki (Māori New Year) celebrations on the spot where the previous tree stood.

Initially, a small grove of three young tōtara and six young pohutukawa along with a shelter-band of native shrubs will be planted to ensure the optimum chance of survival in the exposed conditions on the tihi.

Over the course of several years, and overseen by arborists, a process of natural selection will see the stronger trees emerge.

After 10 to 20 years either a single mature pohutukawa or tōtara will remain.

ENDS

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