Trees and Vegetation
Here's where you can find information about fixing problems with trees, planting a new tree outside your property, or anything you would like to know about grass cutting.
Tree Problems
Trees blown over or fallen onto the road or footpath
When a tree has blown onto or otherwise fallen onto the road or footpath, causing problems for either pedestrians or motorists, it needs to be removed as soon as possible to avoid accidents. In such cases please contact Customer Services on 07 306 0500 (24hrs). If the tree has come from private property, the owner of the property needs to remove it or arrange for it to be removed. Failing that, the Council will engage a contractor to remove it and will recover the cost from the property owner.
If the tree is from a park or reserve or street, please advise Customer Services immediately on 07 306 0500 so that they may arrange for the removal of the offending tree.
Trees in Power lines
When street trees or trees in parks and reserves are encroaching or growing too close to power lines, please advise Customer Services who will arrange for pruning.
If the tree is on private property, you will need to advise Horizon Energy, providing them with the location details of the tree.
If you are interested in tree planting and care click here for a guide.
Grass Cutting Information
Verges outside houses and on private property
Under the Council's policy the mowing of grass outside all houses is the responsibility of the property owner. The Council's policy relating to the cutting of grass verges in urban areas is that:
1. the maintenance of all grass verges is the responsibility of the adjacent property owner;
2. where the adjacent property owner is by way of illness, age or similar restrictions, or is unable to make alternative arrangements, the property owner should make an application to the Council for assistance. The Council may require proof or evidence such as a medical certificate in such cases;
3. the Council undertakes an annual review of exceptions for those whose grass verge is being maintained;
4. with the exception of (2) above, Council maintenance on verges will be limited to grass cutting to reduce hazards.
In adopting this policy, the Council is aware that verge maintenance undertaken in accordance with (2) above will not necessarily reflect the quality of maintenance on private properties.
Grass cutting under (4) above will not be to any amenity standard, the required result being the removal of hazard.
If you are want someone to cut the grass on your private property, and you do not meet the above criteria, you will need to contact the local lawnmowing service providers. The Yellow Pages of the telephone book under "lawnmowing services" is the best place to start looking.
Complaints about the Council's cutting of grass verges, sportsfield, parks and reserves
The Council employs a contractor to complete its grass cutting contracts. If you are concerned about the length of grass on any verge, sportsfield, park or reserve, contact Customer Services on 07 306 0500.
Other Grass Problems
• If the grass causing concern is on your neighbour's property, then the Council is restricted in what action it can take to help. If the grass is unkempt and causing an eyesore, the Council cannot intervene unless there is a fire hazard or a risk to your health or your environment. If you believe your neighbour's property to be a fire hazard or health risk, contact Customer Services, who will take the details of your situation and refer them to the following officers to action -
- Fire Hazard - Principal Rural Fire Officer.
- Health Reasons - appropriate Area EHO
• If you are concerned about the length of the grass alongside a State Highway, please contact Transit NZ as they are responsible for maintenance on State Highways, and the land alongside.