Over the summer a number of trees on Thames-Coromandel District Council reserves and land have been poisoned, illegally trimmed or stolen.

Chief executive David Hammond says incidents of tree felling, poisoning and illegal trimming usually occur in spring and summer when there is a higher population on the Coromandel.

A kauri was stolen from the World War One Memorial site in Whangamata during the holiday period. Photo: File

'It's really disappointing to see that over the Christmas and New Year period we've had number of incidents across the district where perfectly healthy native trees have been poisoned, illegally trimmed, felled or dug up,” says David.

'We strive to maintain the Coromandel brand, which is about protecting and preserving our natural resources and biodiversity and we hope that our ratepayers, residents and visitors to our District will do the same.”

In one case a kauri was dug up and stolen from the World War One Memorial Site in Whangamata, which is on council reserve at the north entrance to the town.

This site marks the battle of Le Quesnoy, which took place on November 4, 1918. Last year 122 native trees were planted at the reserve to remember the 122 New Zealand troops who died in the battle.

'We will be planting a replacement tree, but we're at a loss as to understand why it was taken in the first place.”

It costs thousands of dollars to replace trees every year, which affects all residents and ratepayers, adds David.

'We consult with residents and talk to community boards about tree placement on our reserves and land so as not to impact on views and be more selective about where and what sort of trees are planted.”

If you have any information on trees being damaged or destroyed contact the Thames-Coromandel District Council's Customer Services team on 07-868-0200 or email: [email protected]