CHRISTCHURCH CITY COUNCIL MEDIA RELEASE
14 August 2009

Plant a native tree in honour of your dog's memory

Christchurch City Council is offering dog owners a place to create a special tribute to their departed pets by establishing a pet memorial park at the Groynes Recreational Reserve.

Presently 60 plots have been sectioned off and marked on a map to be sold to owners of pets who want to plant a native tree in memory of their beloved furry family member and best friend.

Plot owners choose a native tree from a selection from the Council for planting at their plots and a ground marker may be placed near the tree to provide a base for an engraved plaque.

A plot and tree package costs $75. For an additional $25 pet owners can include the concrete ground marker at their plot. Steel plaques for the monument are available from a provider at $10. The plot and tree selection can be done at any Council Service Centre.

“The memorial park allows owners to share the cherished memories of their pets alongside other pet owners and creates a special place they can return to visit again and again,” says Gary Lennan, Manager Inspections & Enforcement with the Council. “This meaningful gesture will keep the spirit of a lost loved one alive.”

Plot owners can inter the ashes of their departed pets at or near the tree. The memorial park is was not a cemetery for pets but rather a tribute to a cherished pet, says Mr Lennan.  

The Memorial Park is part of the Groynes Dog Park at Johns Road. The areas surrounding the memorial park will be landscaped with paths and low-growing grass plants. The memorial park officially opens on Sunday 6 September with a planting ceremony at the site at 2pm.

A selection of several native tree species, at approximately 1.8 metres in height, are available to choose from. Owners may choose to plant their trees themselves or have the grounds staff do that for them.

Planting days will be held each month on set days. Plot owners will need to bring their pets ashes and the ground staff will arrange for the tree, monument and plaque to be present at their plot.

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