The area highlighted is where wilding pines and other non-native trees will be removed on Wairakei Drive. Photo / Supplied
Contact Energy will be removing wilding pines and other non-native trees along the southern end of Wairakei Drive from mid-February.
The area, which begins at the main 50km/h speed signs just north of the town entrance, will be replanted with about 5000 native species including manuka, harakeke, koromiko, and kanuka.
Contact Energy property and environment manager Andy Gray says the ageing pines, which are invasive, have started to spread to nearby native plantings and have become a significant risk to local infrastructure and livestock.
"Wilding pines can spread through landscapes very quickly if they're not controlled. Most of the trees are old, nearing the end of their natural life and pose a hazard. By replacing the pines with native species, we're helping to restore Taupō's original ecosystems.
"These pines have increased health and safety risks in the area. For example, falling
branches can damage fences, meaning stock animals can escape on to the main road and create significant risk. They could also fall on cars and people."
