The removal of most of the large ngaio trees from the beachfront reserve at the western end of the Coastlands subdivision is to proceed, following further consultation between the Whakatāne District Council and the owners of neighbouring properties.

Council Technical Officer Fiona Hennessey says the mature ngaio in the reserve area running between Omega Place in the west and Ocean View Road in the east are reaching the end of their natural lifespan, and many have grown considerably larger than was anticipated when they were planted as part of a Coastcare programme in the mid-1990s.

“Feedback received by the Council made it clear that opinions about the trees differed, so we’ve gone to some length to consult the owners of the properties which share a boundary with the reserve,” she says. “Three of the 15 owners contacted indicated that they wanted the trees in front to their properties left as they are, so we will take their wishes into account. The ngaio in front of other properties will be progressively removed over the next month.”

Ms Hennessey says that in such cases, the Council has to take a balanced view of the amenity value of trees and their contribution to dune stability, versus their impact on views and, potentially, property values.

“In this instance, it’s possible to replace the trees with more compatible coastal vegetation species which will help preserve the dune structure without obstructing coastal views.”

The Council is also considering the plantings in the reserve immediately to the east and is likely to carry out a similar consultation process with regard to mature trees in that area.