The shape of the world famous ‘Wanaka tree’ has been changed for the next ten to 15 years, following the vandalism done to it early this week, the Queenstown Lakes Council arborist says.

A popular tourist attraction at Roys Bay, Lake Wanaka, the tree was discovered damaged early on Tuesday March 17. Several large branches had been removed, without authorisation, possibly with a handsaw.

The tree is the responsibility of Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), which administers the lakebed, rather than Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) or Otago Regional Council land, but QLDC arborist Tim Errington said he will take a look at the tree today (Thursday March 19) to assess the damage.

“It’s obviously altered the shape of it and that won’t change for a long time. The branch won’t grow back, it will produce a lot of shoots. It could easily be ten or 15 years before you get a branch there. 

“It’s growing in a pretty challenging environment so will grow slowly,” he said. “It’s a very unfortunate incident.”

Tim said the long term effect of the damage to the tree will take time to assess.

“However, willows are a pretty hardy sort of tree. I’m hopeful the tree won’t be harmed.” 

LINZ land and property group manager Stephanie Forrest told the Wanaka App the department was disappointed to learn of the damage, and it has reported the matter to the police. 

Stephanie said LINZ has received requests and issued recreation permits for commercial filming and photography of the tree, most recently for a reality TV show. The permits “often include strict conditions to ensure the tree is protected”, she said.

Police area response manager Senior Sergeant Miriam Chittenden said Wanaka police are investigating a report of vandalism on the tree.

Police would like to speak to anyone who may have information about this incident, or anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area overnight on Tuesday March 17.

They can call police on 105 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

PHOTOS: Wanaka App