Department of Conservation principal policy analyst Paula Warren says there is no statute giving legal protection for cabbage trees in New Zealand, despite popular perceptions. Regional authority Environment Canterbury also states on its website “cabbage trees are not a protected plant therefore they can be cut down”.
Can I cut down trees on my property NZ?
You will need to apply for a resource consent to cut down, work around, trim or prune it, as the work may destroy it or cause irreparable damage to it. We assess requests for public tree maintenance and carry out work when needed, such as removing a broken hanging branch.
Can you cut down a cabbage tree NZ?
This tree is very tenacious and will grow back after being cut down. Maori would harvest the root of the young trees, which is shaped like a large carrot, and bake or steam it in their ovens.
Can you cut down native trees on your own property?
If a tree on your property is protected, you will need a resource consent to remove it, prune it, or carry out construction work near it. It’s best to check with us before you start any work on or near a tree, so we can provide up-to-date information on all the rules which may apply.
Can you remove a cabbage tree?
You can remove it from the ground by manually digging around the stump and exposing the root system. Cut the roots with a pruning saw, then pull the stump out of the ground.
What trees can you not cut down in NZ?
Currently, there are several species of trees that are protected in Auckland, which include the puriri, Norfolk pine, kauri, totara and pohutukawa. The puriri, or Vitex lucens, is an evergreen tree that is native to New Zealand.
Are cabbage trees protected in Dunedin?
Protecting, Promoting & Maintaining our native and naturalized tree species. excluded from protection, including all mangroves, Sabal Palms, or Cabbage Palms.
Can I burn cabbage tree wood?
The trunk of the cabbage tree is so fire-resistant that early European settlers used it to make chimneys for their huts.
Are cabbage trees native to NZ?
Cordyline australis, commonly known as the cabbage tree, tī kōuka or cabbage-palm, is a widely branched monocot tree endemic to New Zealand.
Do cabbage trees have deep roots?
Standard cabbage has a shallow root system, which varies from 18 to 36 inches, when compared to a deep-rooting vegetable such as an artichoke, pumpkin or tomato, which roots deeper than 48 inches. Medium-rooting vegetables such as beans, beets and carrots root from 36 to 48 inches deep.
Can I cut down a native tree NZ?
Before doing any work to a tree, it’s important to be sure it is on your private property. If you prune or cut down a tree that is on public property you can be fined. Unless a tree on your property is protected, you can maintain it as necessary. This includes native trees such as pohutukawa.
Can I throw my Neighbours leaves back NZ?
You can put them back on their property, taking care not to cause any damage, or ask for them to be removed. If the trunk of the tree extends over the boundary, this does not give you the right to chop it down. A tree planted on your neighbour’s land belongs to them, and they will be liable for any damage it causes.
Do you need permission to cut down a tree in your garden?
If you own your home, one does not need permission to cut down a tree that is solely in your garden, unless it has been designated as needing preservation through the Tree Preservation Order or Conservation Area.
How do I know if a tree is protected?
Trees are protected either by having a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or if the trees are within a Conservation Area. Detailed information about Tree Preservation Orders and Conservation Areas can be found on the gov.uk website.
Can you top a cabbage tree?
When they get too tall you simply chop the main stem off and they soon sprout into about four new branches, turning an ugly stump into a cheerful new cabbage tree.
What happens if I cut down a protected tree?
What happens if I work on a protected tree without permission? The courts have powers to fine anyone contravening a Tree Preservation Order. The maximum fine is £20,000 for destroying a tree and up to £2,500 for anyone who does not completely destroy a tree but has carried out some other works without consent.
Can I complain about the height of my Neighbours trees?
We have enforcement powers to assist residents with concerns about high hedges. If you ask for assistance you must provide evidence to show that you have attempted to resolve the problem with your neighbour.
What is a protected tree?
It protects specified trees and woodlands, and prevents cutting down, uprooting, topping, lopping, wilful damage or destruction of trees (including cutting roots) without our permission. A TPO can protect anything from a single tree to all trees within a defined group or woodland.
Can my Neighbour cut the top of my hedge?
Your neighbour can cut any branches that are overhanging into their garden as long as they only remove the bits on their side of the boundary. If they want you to cut your tree or hedge just because they don’t like the way it looks, it’s up to you whether you do the work.
What can you do with cabbage tree leaves?
Dried cabbage tree leaves can be tied into knots or bundles to use as firelighters or kindling; the leaves are full of turpentine oil and burn easily. Baskets, string and rope can all be made from cabbage tree leaves. Cabbage tree leaves can be used as mulch.
What can I do if my Neighbours trees are too high?
Resolving neighbour disputes
- Overview.
- Talk to your neighbour.
- Contact your neighbour’s landlord.
- Use a mediation service.
- Complain about noise to the council.
- High hedges, trees and boundaries.
- Call the police.
- Take action through the courts.