This is clearly a result of ‘nativism’ ideology rather than concern about anything else. The exotic trees were about 15 metres high and whatever natives they have planted in their place will take about as many years to get to that same height.
We asked councilor for Waikanae, Nigel Wilson (KCDC not GWRC) who says he was not informed prior to it happening, for comment:
“I think planting native trees is an excellent idea, but as replacements as exotic trees become a danger. In the case of Edgewater that was not the case. Destroying 50 mature trees that didn’t appear to be a danger doesn’t meet the ‘gradual replacement’ policy GW speak of. It is great that many more native trees have been planted in the area but I am sceptical about the rush to destroy healthy, attractive trees.”
A photo from February 2025, the now felled area on the left.
The area as it looks now. (The bare trees are on the south river bank.)
I hate that we seem to be losing so many mature trees in Kapiti just because they aren’t native and with the added excuse of “safety concerns”. Any planting done to replace them, won’t grow in my life time to be the same majestic heights as the trees lost.
Just look at the mess in Waikanae park, where we lost a beautiful shaded track that now just looks decimated and full of weeds.
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