North Shore City media release

Reserve loses native trees to vandals

November 23, 2007

A large number of native trees in Linley Reserve and Eban Ave, Hillcrest, have been deliberately poisoned and cut down without resource consent.

North Shore City Council’s parks operations manager, Mike Weaver, says there has been major destruction and deliberate damage to a number of significant trees in the reserve.

“Mature specimens of Totara, Kahikatea and Kanuka have evidence of poisoning. Several other trees have been cut down, and have fallen on other native vegetation,” he says.

“Linley Reserve is one of a few in the district that is dominated by Totara. The reserve is important as it provides a protective buffer to the upper reaches of the Hillcrest Creek. The loss of trees in reserves also leaves them exposed to invasive pest species.

“The damage done will have an impact on both the present park users and future generations who may not have the opportunity to admire and respect a rare forest remnant that is unique to this area,” says Mr Weaver.

The District Plan protects significant trees and bush in North Shore City from damage and needless removal. Penalties for such an offence carry a maximum $200,000 fine or two years imprisonment.

“The rules are there to stop people destroying trees on public land, trees that are there for everyone’s enjoyment,”says Mr Weaver.

If you have any information regarding the poisoning of trees in Linley Reserve and Eban Ave, please phone Actionline on 486 8600.

ENDS

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