An update on our ongoing story on the Khandallah Nofolk Pine. When WCC Watch last wrote about the matter, it was soon after the WCC turned down the resource consent to remove a protected Norfolk Pine from the former property of shoe company founder Robert Hannah.
First story here, second one here.
We suggested then: In the meantime you could just get the tree pruned (did I not suggest that earlier)?
I did not think anyone would try to take it to this extreme. Earlier this month, the tree in question was attacked by reportedly a gang of men with axes. WCC is investigating and is considering this as a “cirminal act”
First, let’s be very clear: WCC Watch does not accuse the owners or tenants of the property to be involved in this heinous attack. WCC is already investigating the matter and should anyone be held responsible, then it is only fair that they be prosecuted as far as the law allows.
Secondly, we have very little in terms of facts to go on here, but it is best to point them out again.
- A well to do person purchased a home of historical importance with a tree that is on the list of protected trees in Wellington City.
- The family attempted to cut down the tree, but were told that the tree was protected.
- The family who resides and the owner of the property jointly applied to the council to cut down the protected tree for a number of reasons.
- The Council rejected the application, for a number of reasons.
- The tree in question has been attacked by a group of men with axes, and the family who were part of the ERA applicaiton were not at the resdience at the time of the attack.
Until the council can update us on their investigation, we can only make presumptions as to the motive of this attack.
WCC Watch 
I find it so sad that people feel the need to go out of their way to do this! I grew up in Khandallah and this tree is Box Hill!