Illegal tree removal prompts warning from Waipā District Council

Waipā District Council is warning deliberate damage to public trees will not be tolerated, following the prosecution of a person who illegally cut down a street tree in Cambridge.

The Council chose to prosecute in response to increasing incidents of vandalism involving Council-owned trees and to discourage further damage to these important community assets.

On November 14, 2025, a healthy, mature street tree on Stafford Street, Cambridge, was illegally felled by a member of the public without Council approval.

As part of the court process, a diversion agreement was reached with the defendant.

Under the agreement, the defendant was required to:

• make a $5000 donation to the Cambridge Tree Trust
• provide a letter of apology
• reimburse Council $2000 for costs associated with removing the remaining trunk and stump, and replacement planting
• agree to Council publicly communicating the outcome.

Council Acting Group Manager of Customer and Community Services Barbara Dempsey said Council wanted to send a clear message that intentional damage to public trees has consequences.

"Most people value the trees in their neighbourhood and understand the important role they play in our communities. We know people can feel strongly about trees, but if there are concerns, we encourage residents to talk to us first rather than taking matters into their own hands."

Street trees are public assets belonging to the whole community. They provide shade, improve biodiversity, support stormwater functions, contribute to neighbourhood character and value, and can take decades to replace once removed.

Residents are reminded trees located on Council land, including street berms and reserves, must not be removed, pruned or damaged without Council approval.

Anyone who witnesses vandalism or damage to Council trees is encouraged to report it to Waipā District Council.