Council is planning to renew some of the street trees on Wai-iti Road, and wants your feedback to assist with decision making.
Please give us your feedback by completing this online form no later than 5pm Friday 26 June 2026.
This webpage is a summary of what is proposed and why. More details are contained in this PDF document.
What is proposed?
To replace 27 Sorbus aucuparia (Common Rowan) street trees with Callery Pear trees, and remove seven street trees (no replacement) , on Wai-iti Road between Mountainview Road and Craighead Street. If it proceeds, it is intended that this work would begin in August and take place over a two week period.
It is proposed to remove:
- Craighead Street to Seddon Street = 9 trees
- Kauri/Guinness to Morgans Road = 16 trees (4 are under overhead electricity lines and will not be replaced)
- Morgans Road to Mountainview Road = 11 trees (3 are under overhead electricity lines and will not be replaced)
Why is it proposed that the trees are replaced?
Rowan Trees are not ideal in hotter, drier climates, are disease‑prone and in Canterbury they are invasive and capable of smothering native vegetation. Rowan trees produce a heavy berry production that attracts birds, which can lead to droppings on footpaths and cars. This is a common complaint with the existing street trees.
What type of replacement tree is proposed?
It is proposed to replace the trees with Callery Pear trees. The benefit of these trees include:
- White flowers in winter
- Can be easily shaped and size maintained
- Hardy and can take some abuse and damage
- They have a shallow root system
What happens next?
Feedback will be provided to Councillors to help them decide whether this proposal should proceed, or be amended or cancelled. It is intended that Councillors will make this decision as part of the scheduled 21 July Council meeting.
Questions?
If you have any questions, please check the full details contained in the PDF document at the top of this page in case it is answered there. Otherwise, call John Keenan at Timaru District Council: 03 687 7265.
Last updated: 12 Jun 2026