New trees sprouting up on Waimakariri streets

Waimakariri District Council is continuing to grow a greener district, with 147 trees being planted this year as part of the Natural Environment Strategy.

The programme includes a mix of replacement and new street trees across Rangiora, Kaiapoi, Pegasus, Woodend and rural communities including Mandeville, Oxford, Ohoka, Loburn and Swannanoa.

This year's planting programme features a diverse mix of native and exotic trees, including Yoshino cherries, hornbeams, maples, oaks, kowhai, callery pears, lacebarks and ribbonwoods.

Species have been selected to suit local conditions and enhance the character of neighbourhoods while supporting biodiversity and environmental resilience.

Council currently cares for more than 23,000 trees across the district. Street trees improve air quality, support native birds and insects, reduce stormwater runoff during heavy rainfall, and make for more attractive neighbourhoods.

The programme also helps build resilience for future generations by increasing spaces in urban areas and providing a diverse mix of tree species across the district. As trees mature, they become an increasingly valuable part of Waimakariri's natural environment and community spaces.

Residents interested in requesting a street tree can contact Council's Customer Services team. New planting requests are assessed alongside factors such as available space, safety requirements, existing services and local site conditions.