Anyone interested in the future of the district’s urban tree population is invited to share their thoughts about Whakatāne District Council’s draft tree strategy.

Consultation on the draft Whakatāne District Tree Strategy – Ngā Taonga a Tāne opens tomorrow (Thursday, 8 August), and marks the beginning of a community-wide effort to enhance and protect the district’s urban tree population over the next 20 years.

“This is the first opportunity our communities have had in more than twenty years to provide detailed feedback on how we care for and manage ngā taonga rakau o te whenua (the precious trees of our land),” says General Manager Community Experience, Georgina Fletcher.

“A lot has changed during this time, and as the Whakatāne District grows, together with the impacts of climate change, it’s important Council’s tree population is managed well.”

The Whakatāne District Tree Strategy aims to address the challenges associated with the Council’s amenity trees, which provide environmental, recreational, and aesthetic value to our streets and parks. The Strategy outlines a comprehensive framework for managing, protecting, and growing the district’s tree population, recognising the vital role urban trees play in improving the wellbeing of our communities.

“It's now over to our communities to take a look and tell us if we’ve got it right, or whether there’s things we’ve missed,” Georgina adds.

The draft Strategy includes guiding principles and goals to enhance our urban tree population through proactive planning, planting, and management. 

“Careful planning is essential, especially in the context of urban development, infrastructure, services, and climate change.”

The Strategy also includes the goal to increase the Council’s amenity tree population by 20% over the next 20 years and ensure that future plantings are distributed equitably throughout townships. It also seeks to establish plantings for cultural harvest purposes, ensure effective monitoring and maintenance of trees, seek iwi and hapū mātauranga (knowledge) and reduce safety hazards related to trees. Additionally, the Strategy prioritises the retention and protection of existing trees and seeks to reduce tree vandalism. 

“The success of the Whakatāne District Tree Strategy relies heavily on community support and involvement. So, we really encourage everyone to have their say and contribute to the development of a healthy and sustainable tree population.”

Community members will be able to review the draft Strategy and provide feedback online or in writing during the public consultation period. All feedback must be received by 5pm, Thursday, 5 September 2024.

“Join the conversation and let us know what you think,” Mrs Fletcher says. 

More information, including the draft strategy and submission form, will be available at koreromai.whakatane.govt.nz/treestrategy. Hard copies will also be available from Whakatāne District Council’s Customer Service Centre at 14 Commerce Street, Whakatāne, the Murupara Service Centre on Pine Drive in Murupara and from Whakatāne District Libraries.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email us.