New notable trees ready for recognition

Auckland’s notable trees are living legends. They provide homes for native species like the tūī, offer much-needed shade on a warm day, and have stood steady as Tāmaki Makaurau has grown around them.

Now, a fresh batch of these leafy landmarks has been nominated for the notable tree schedule.

Earlier this month, Auckland’s Policy and Planning Committee approved public consultation on adding 174 individual trees and 29 groups of trees to the schedule.

Chair of the committee, Councillor Richard Hills, says protecting notable trees helps preserve an important part of Auckland’s natural identity.

“Notable trees are living parts of Auckland’s story. From pōhutukawa to kauri to London planes – adding them to the notable tree schedule preserves their natural, historical and cultural stories for us, and to pass on for generations to come.

“This year, Auckland was recognised as a Tree City of the World for the fourth year in a row. I’m so proud of the effort we make to protect and nurture our vibrant urban ngahere has again been recognised on a global scale – our notable trees play a key part in that.

“We now have an opportunity to protect more of Auckland’s remarkable trees. We have assessed all trees that were nominated for the schedule up until the end of June 2024, and now propose to add them through this plan change.”

You can have your say on the proposed change to add the trees to the notable tree schedule until June 23.

How are notable trees protected?

Auckland’s unitary plan is our city’s planning rulebook. It sets out what can be built where, and it also helps preserve the notable trees that line our leafy streets. It does this through a part of the plan called the notable tree schedule. Most changes to this schedule must follow a plan change process, allowing Aucklanders to have their say on updates.

What makes a tree notable?

Notable trees are significant for their age and size, rarity, cultural or historical significance, or the habitat they provide to wildlife, like pīwakawaka/fantail, pihipihi/silvereye, and riroriro/grey warbler.

Additionally, trees help cool our city and clean the air. As Auckland’s population grows and the city becomes denser, they’re vital to keeping our neighbourhoods healthy and liveable.

What protections do notable trees have?

The notable trees schedule includes trees that are remarkable and significant or that help wildlife flourish. They therefore have greater legal protections and can’t be removed or significantly altered without an approved resource consent from Auckland Council.

How do I know if a tree is notable?

Check the schedule! You can see all of the trees listed on the notable trees schedule in the Auckland Unitary Plan or the Hauraki Gulf Islands District Plan for the islands.