Heritage tree's fate hangs in balance

The pohutukawa is entwined with an oak tree which cannot be felled. Both trees are too big to be moved. Photo / Brett Phibbs

The future of one of Auckland's most unique trees, which sits on the edge of a proposed development, will soon be decided.

Property developer John McKearney has applied to cut down the pohutukawa, believed to be 80 to 100 years old, on his land in Rosebank Rd, Avondale.

The 10ha site, which was once a market garden, has been cleared for a proposed business park apart from two trees standing together. The pohutukawa is entwined with an oak, which cannot be felled.

Both trees are too large to be shifted.

Mr McKearney presented his case on Friday to an independent panel chosen by the council, and the Tree Council has presented a counter-argument.

Tree Council chairwoman Sigrid Shayer said the trees had a unique size, and great community and heritage values. She would present alternative plans which did not affect the trees.

Ms Shayer said protection of the trees should be a no-brainer but the final decision was completely in the hands of the three independent commissioners.

"If a tree of this stature is allowed to be felled it demeans the value of urban design and tree protection policies the council has."

The commissioners have called for more information from the developers, and written submissions from expert witnesses. A decision is expected within three weeks.

The pohutukawa's felling was temporarily delayed after the conservation group challenged the developer in the High Court in March. The Auckland City Council moved to protect the trees in the District Plan in July, but not before Mr McKearney applied for a second time to cut the tree down. A decision is expected this week.