infonews.co.nz
Login Sign up
CRIME

Historic Tinopai Tree appears to have Survived Poison Attack

Kaipara District Council

Thursday 6 August 2009, 4:15PM

By Kaipara District Council

977 views

Holes were drilled in the trunk, probably to inject chemicals.
Holes were drilled in the trunk, probably to inject chemicals. Credit: Kaipara District Council
The Norfolk pines pose an impressive roadside backdrop at Tinopai. The second tree from the right shows the effect of the alleged poisoning.
The Norfolk pines pose an impressive roadside backdrop at Tinopai. The second tree from the right shows the effect of the alleged poisoning. Credit: Kaipara District Council
While a number of branches have died back the tree appears to have stabilised although its future is not yet assured.
While a number of branches have died back the tree appears to have stabilised although its future is not yet assured. Credit: Kaipara District Council

NORTHLAND

An apparent attempt to kill an iconic Norfolk Pine Tree on Tinopai’s waterfront is being treated very seriously by Kaipara District Council which will be reporting the incident to the Police.

The historic mature tree is one of a row of four on Council road reserve and has been there for at least 70 years. They are considered an important part of the Tinopai character and are included on a schedule of notable trees in Council’s District Plan under which protection measures include them being checked annually by a qualified arborist.

Community Spaces Manager Stephen Soole says one tree appears to have been poisoned by having holes drilled in the trunk, probably to inject herbicide.

“Quite a lot of foliage has died back but the tree appears to have stabilised and be making a recovery although it is too soon to say its future is assured.”

Council has asked an arborist to remove the dead material to ensure the safety of nearby houses but at this stage has no intention of taking the whole tree out.

“I am very concerned that someone has taken a dislike to these trees and has taken matters into their own hands,” Mr Soole says. “They are an important visual asset to the community and Tinopai foreshore. Also, the cost of removing them would be considerable but, more importantly, the trees are irreplaceable.”

He is appealing for information about the apparent poisoning, and also wants to hear urgently if any further interference occurs with these trees. Anyone who can help is asked to phone 09 439 7059.