One Tree Hill summit project
New tree planting proposal
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Executive summary
This report recommends a proposal for growing a tree on the summit of One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie) that will, in time, have the significance and stature
of its predecessor. The recommendation is made following full consideration of the importance to Aucklanders of the former tree(s) on the summit of Maungakiekie,
the history and spiritual and cultural significance of the site and the views of key stakeholders and the public. Also fully considered have been site
constraints, species, the availability and sources of suitable plant material and planting methodology.
The recommendation is for a multiple planting of pohutukawa seedlings in the 2001 planting season. In the subsequent planting seasons of 2002 and/or 2003,
totara seedlings would be planted with the pohutukawa. A process of natural and managed selection would be allowed to occur over the next 10 to 20 years,
resulting in the survival of either a pohutukawa or a totara that will grow to maturity with future generations of Aucklanders.
Some of the pohutukawa seedlings are those which had self-seeded at the base and mid trunk section of the former pine tree and which were retrieved when the
pine was removed in October 2000. Others have been grown from a parent pohutukawa tree in close proximity to the summit. Totara plant material has also been
sourced locally. Both parent trees probably remain from pre-European times and exhibit outstanding characteristics.
A multiple planting of young trees followed by a process of natural and managed selection, is the preferred option in terms of the cultural symbolism, and
optimum growth/survival opportunity. Although small trees will take some years to achieve landscape significance, the proposal will have the most likely chance
of success given the difficult environment in which the tree must grow. The inclusion of shelter planting of shorter-life native shrubs is also proposed in
order to protect and nurture the growth of the specimen tree.
This proposal is based upon a principle of sustainable management with the ultimate objective of attaining a single mature landscape feature that will equate
to the cultural and visual significance of the former lone pine. The planting of seedlings enables the planting of culturally appropriate plants that emanate
from the maunga and its immediate environs and have the greatest chance of success.
This proposal is to plant a new tree. While it is not possible to mitigate the loss of the former lone pine or its predecessor(s), this proposal provides
the opportunity to address the past so that the full significance of Maungakiekie and its history can be appreciated by all Aucklanders.
The succession of trees on the summit of One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie) has had many historical, cultural and visual values. These can be fully expressed
through the Resource Consent process required before a new tree can be planted. The submission process will enable the Commissioners to take these values into
consideration in their decision.
