Takapō River tree removal

Thank you for taking the time to share your views on the tree removal proposal.

We heard a range of feedback, particularly about the impact on nearby residents, the stability of the riverbank on the true left side, and options for replanting.

Based on this feedback, we’re making some changes to how we approach this work.

  • We won't start work on the true left riverbank this financial year as planned, while we take more time to better understand the risks and options.
  • We'll work with Mackenzie District Council and contractors this financial year to remove the fire risk trees close to Murray Place and the pest trees downstream away from the residential area - refer to attached map.
  • We are exploring whether there is additional geotechnical information we can gather to support decision-making, while recognising that a full report isn't feasible.
  • We are working with stakeholders on what a replanting plan could look like.

We know this is an important issue for the community, and we want to take the time to get the approach right.

We’ll continue to keep you updated as this work progresses.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Environment Canterbury: Sam Kidner - sam.kidner@ecan.govt.nz

Mackenzie District Council: Matthew Lanyon - matthew.lanyon@mackenzie.govt.nz

Thank you for taking the time to share your views on the tree removal proposal.

We heard a range of feedback, particularly about the impact on nearby residents, the stability of the riverbank on the true left side, and options for replanting.

Based on this feedback, we’re making some changes to how we approach this work.

  • We won't start work on the true left riverbank this financial year as planned, while we take more time to better understand the risks and options.
  • We'll work with Mackenzie District Council and contractors this financial year to remove the fire risk trees close to Murray Place and the pest trees downstream away from the residential area - refer to attached map.
  • We are exploring whether there is additional geotechnical information we can gather to support decision-making, while recognising that a full report isn't feasible.
  • We are working with stakeholders on what a replanting plan could look like.

We know this is an important issue for the community, and we want to take the time to get the approach right.

We’ll continue to keep you updated as this work progresses.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Environment Canterbury: Sam Kidner - sam.kidner@ecan.govt.nz

Mackenzie District Council: Matthew Lanyon - matthew.lanyon@mackenzie.govt.nz

  • CLOSED: This survey has concluded.

    Share your feedback

    All feedback will be considered before we make a decision. We are not intending to publish all feedback. However, feedback, including your name, will be publicly available if we are requested to provide it under the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act. Your information is held and administered by Environment Canterbury in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020 and Environment Canterbury's Privacy Policy.

Page last updated: 30 Jun 2026, 09:28 AM