Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) is looking for community input on its tree policy, which determines how public trees in the district are managed.

The tree policy specifies that any tree removed in the district on public land must be replaced with two trees.

It also prevents the removal of trees on public land to minimise obstruction of views or commercial or advertising signage, or to reduce leaf, fruit litter, other debris, or shading, among others.  

An update to the tree policy a year after it was approved includes further detail on activities around trees and better policies for directing when a Tree Protection Management Plan (TPMP) is required, QLDC community services general manager Kenneth Bailey said.

“Trees are a significant part of our stunning scenery and play an active role in our health and wellbeing,” he said.

“We’re looking for community feedback to make sure our draft Tree Policy 2023 has solid roots and a stable base, and to help determine what we’re doing well with public trees now, and where we might make improvements.”

Other changes to the policy include a more logical layout, making the document clearer and more user-friendly; better direction on where and when mitigation planting is required; and clearer wording around who is responsible for paying for tree removal or alteration works.

Read more: Residents lose bid to have trees removed

Kenneth said trees provided wildlife habitat in parks and reserves, shade in urban township areas, and played a significant role in how the district is viewed as an active place filled with outdoor adventures.

“A considerable number of trees in the Queenstown Lakes District provide important amenity and ecological value for residents and visitors alike. It’s essential that we manage them in the best way possible so they can continue to be enjoyed.”

Members of the public are invited to leaf through the proposed changes in the draft policy and to share feedback online here, or to view printed copies at council offices and libraries.

Feedback closes on October 29. 

PHOTO: Wānaka App