DoC Kauri Coast service manager Luke Archbold said the loss of the trees was not measured in money terms. Photo / File
DoC Kauri Coast service manager Luke Archbold said the loss of the trees was not measured in money terms. Photo / File
The theft of about 50 young kauri trees from Trounson Kauri Park's nursery has hit Department of Conservation staff hard.
The 1-1.5m high trees, valued at about $15 each, were taken between October 1-15 from the Trounson Field Base nursery at Donnelly's Crossing.
DoC Kauri Coast service manager Luke Archboldsaid the loss of the trees was not measured in money terms as much as its impact on the conservation work for which the trees were propagated.
"These trees were grown from seed by staff and volunteers, so their loss means more than just a replacement value to us," Mr Archbold said.
The nursery raises eco-sourced native trees that originate from existing trees in Trounson Park, and are then planted within the reserve and its margins.
"The [department] leases out the adjoining farm but we are, progressively over the long term, replanting the forest margins and reducing the farm size," Mr Archbold said.
Anyone offered young kauri trees for sale should contact Dargaville Police on 09 4393400.
