Tree Safety on Rural Properties

Damaged trees

Please don’t remove dangerous damaged trees yourself. These can be under significant tension and can result in an explosive release when cut or moved.

Any power lines amongst trees must be considered LIVE and dangerous.

If you have serious concerns about a dangerous tree situation, please contact a forestry contractor and they will provide an on-site assessment and guidance.

The list below offers some forestry contractors within our district. They can provide you with advice or connect you with the closest contractor based on your location.

Balclutha Area:

• Mike Hurring Logging – 03 419 0101 / 027 432 8506

• Olly Logging – 027 206 3965

Ōwaka Area:

• Adrian Shute – 027 285 2112

• Mark Cuthbert – 027 229 2972

Milton Area:

• Roxburgh Contracting – 027 435 0190

• Shane Griffin – 027 274 8233

Forestry on boundary fences

If you have plantation forestry that has fallen over your boundary fence, please call the forestry company to let them know.

Trees that are poisonous to stock

A note of caution that some tree species can be poisonous to animals; some such as Macrocarpa, Cupressus, Leylandii, Radiata Pine and Cryptomeria trees contain a toxin, which causes abortions in cattle. Keep pregnant stock away from fallen trees and hedges of these species. These trees are generally not that attractive to livestock but can become palatable if they fall over in storms and their leaves or needles dry out.

Also, oleander and rhododendrons can be lethal, as are some natives such as ngaio or tutu. Keep livestock away from them. If you are not sure ask your veterinarian.