As of the month of June, 94 trees have successfully been planted this year as part of the Howick Local Board and the Council's continuous commitment to enhance the local environment.
These plantings mark a significant step forward in their collective mission to increase the urban ngahere canopy cover in the area and create a greener, more sustainable community.
Howick Local Board chair Damian Light says, “Through our Howick Urban Ngahere Action Plan, we’re working towards the regional goal of increasing our tree canopy cover from an estimated 15% to a much healthier 30% - so every tree helps.”
This strategic approach will help mitigate the effects of urbanisation, such as the heat island effect, and enhance the overall sustainability and resilience of Howick.
“Trees provide a wide range of benefits to our communities and environment by providing shade, improving air quality, and enhancing biodiversity. Together with our incredible local community planting groups working in our reserves, these trees will help restore the lungs of our city.”
Some of the tree planting work by Councils Parks and Community Facilities team, in the Howick area
These newly planted trees are an investment in the future, ensuring that our community continues to thrive and flourish for generations to come.
Auckland Council’s Parks and Community Facilities Urban Forest Specialist Rob Delonge adds, “We undertake tree plantings mainly in road reserves and parks throughout the Howick Local board area and with the aim to plant approximately 130 tress this year. It’s a great investment in the long-term sustainability of the community, ensuring a greener more liveable and enjoyable environment for everyone.”
Sentiments echoed by fellow Arboriculture Specialist Edward Geeson who adds, “in addition to this, all our contractors are approved, and all work is carried out in accordance with the Health & Safety at Work Act.”
As part of efforts to inform the public, there have been letter drops in place where planting cards are issued to each property where a tree is planned to be planted in the road reserve outside the property.
These planting cards contain essential information about the proposed tree species, the estimated planting timeframe, and contact details in case residents have any further questions or concerns about the planting.
Rob says that when planting trees, the team adhere to strict guidelines and protects such as:
- PPE (personal protective equipment)
- Safe work practices
- Traffic management
- Machinery and equipment safety
- Site assessment & planning
- Training
Some of the tree planting work by Councils Parks and Community Facilities team, in the Howick area
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