Pines poisoned on SH2 just out of Awatoto

Published: 11 March 2019

Last Updated: 22 March 2019

Napier City Council staff are disappointed that Norfolk pines planted alongside State Highway 2 between Marine Parade and Awatoto have been poisoned.

Ten of the pines, about eight years old, were poisoned a few weeks ago. It took some time for the effects to be noticed, but drill holes where the poison was inserted into the tree were clearly visible on some of them.

The trees had been planted as an extension of the Norfolk pines further up Marine Parade, some of which are well over 150 years old.

“We don’t understand why anyone would want to do this. In an area that can often look quite barren, it’s a welcome sight to see a bit of green alongside this main thoroughfare, and this type of tree is an iconic part of Napier,” says Debra Stewart, Team Leader Parks, Reserves & Sportsgrounds.  

NCC's Debra Stewart: “We don’t understand why anyone would want to do this. In an area that can often look quite barren, it’s a welcome sight to see a bit of green alongside this main thoroughfare."  

This is not the first time trees have been attacked along this stretch of highway. About eight years ago several in virtually the same location were chopped down.

Council staff say unfortunately tree poisonings around the city are not unheard of. For example, a large liquidambar in Jeffares Place, Taradale, had to be removed recently as it had been poisoned.

Council asks for anyone with information about who may have poisoned the pines, or sees any suspicious behaviour related to trees on public land to get in touch as soon as possible.

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