Debate continues over Havelock North gum tree

A historic bluegum tree at St Columba's Church in Havelock North should remain, but be carefully managed, an independent arborist has recommended.
The arborist also suggested Hastings District Council take over maintenance of the "significant and historic landmark" to reduce any further risk.
The council had asked for an independent report after the tree dropped a substantial limb on the church carpark on January 1. The tree is protected under the council's district plan, and can't be cut down.
Council asset management group manager David Fraser said the arborist and council's own staff found the tree was in healthy condition.
The risk of harm to the public from further limbs dropping was low, provided mitigating action was taken, he said.
Limb failures were unpredictable, and a comprehensive risk assessment of the tree and surrounding area was needed.
To reduce the risk, the independent arborist recommended the council consider taking responsibility for monitoring and caring for the tree, which is owned by St Columba's Church.
"In considering this matter, a wide range of issues are involved, including risk to the public, damage to both church and public property, the cost of regular tree care, and the longer term impacts on the community," Mr Fraser said.
Officers would ask the council to consider taking over the management of the landmark tree.
St Columba's Reverend Roger Gillies said that could be an option, if the council opted to retain the tree's protected status.
"There is some logic in that, given we didn't ask for the tree to be placed on the heritage list."
He had not seen the arborist's report, but was not surprised by the recommendations.
But Rev Gillies said he hoped the council would also consider the "broader picture".
"The life of the tree is finite, and I would prefer that we would make a decision about its removal before it's forced upon us in a way that we would not wish, in terms of severe damage or injury being caused."
The church applied last year to lift the tree's protected status. A public petition was collected in support of saving the tree, and the council opted to keep the listing.