Any tree removed on public land will have to be replaced with two new trees under a new policy for this district.

Councillors have adopted Queenstown Lakes District Council’s (QLDC) new tree policy following a recommendation from council’s community and services committee.

QLDC community services acting general manager Meaghan Miller said residents were passionate about the protection of trees in the district.

The QLDC Tree Policy 2022 had “robust criteria” to ensure trees weren’t unnecessarily removed, she said.

“The [new policy] specifies any tree removed in the district on public land must be replaced with two trees, acknowledging council’s commitment to climate change and biodiversity initiatives in the district,” she said.

Also in the new policy is guidance on types of trees council will plant, maintenance, and how staff and contractors should work around trees, helping QLDC manage trees to meet community aspirations.

Under the new policy, trees on public land will not be removed for the following reasons:

• To minimise obstruction of views
• To minimise obstruction of commercial or advertising signage
• To reduce leaf or fruit litter and other debris
• To reduce shading
• For contributing to allergenic or irritant responses
• Or when the risk posed by the tree meets the requirements of the Tree Risk Management.

The new policy was approved by councillors at last week’s (Thursday August 11) council meeting.

PHOTO: Wānaka App