To
Attention
Valiant Homes
PO Box 303311
North Harbour
Auckland
Prepared
by
Andre Le Claire
Reviewed
by
Karl Burgisser
Hamish Clarke
Date
Ref
17 January 2014
19156
Subject
-
Arboricultural Assessment
60 Tiri Tiri Avenue, Birkdale
1.
Introduction
1.1.
Arborlab Ltd has been engaged to assess the effects of the proposed works and in
relation to an application to Auckland Council (Council) for the alteration of protected
trees as determined within the North Shore City Council District Plan (Plan).
1.2.
This assessment includes the confirmation of tree protection status, discussion
regarding any potential adverse effects from the proposed works and recommended
actions to ensure any potential adverse effects will be adequately avoided, remedied
or mitigated.
2.
Attachments




3.
Appendix 1: Photoset
Appendix 2: Vegetation Inventory (ALC-19156)
Appendix 3: Site Plan – Topographic Survey (McKay Knarston – Feb 2013
Drawing Number 12012-6)
Appendix 4: Site Plan – Overall Site Plan – (Mahendra Daji – Revision G)
Zoning


Residential Zone 2A
Significant Ecological Area – Unitary Plan (Operative)
60 Tiri Tiri Ave, Birkdale – Page 1 of 24
4.
Tree Protection Status
4.1.
Overall this activity as it affects vegetation is considered to be a Discretionary Activity
under the operative controls of the Unitary Plan specifically the controls as these
relate to vegetation alteration within a significant ecological area.
4.2.
These works also trigger vegetation alteration controls under the current District Plan,
this being rule 8.4.6.1.2 of the North Shore City District Plan.
4.3.
It is acknowledged that none of the subject trees are protected under Appendix 8C of
the Plan – Schedule of Notable Trees. Also from the plans provided, no road or
reserve trees are affected by this proposal.
4.4.
Supplementary to the above, it is noted that a stream is located and affected by this
proposal. However given building plans have not been provided the alteration in this
location is estimated to be either a Limited Discretionary Activity or potentially
Discretionary Activity under Plan Change 23 as detailed below. Unitary Plan control
are also effective as this related to vegetation 10m for the stream.
4.5.
All of the described controls are listed below for clarity.
North Shore City District Plan
General Tree Protection
8.4.6.1.2 Limited Discretionary Activities
The following shall be Limited Discretionary Activities, which require a resource consent, with
no application fee in the first instance:
c)
All works including any excavation, deposition of materials, construction activity,
emplacement of services, discharge or dispersal of any toxic substance,
emplacement of any weed control membrane, or storage of vehicles, machinery, or
materials above, below, or within the root zone of any tree described in Rule
8.4.6.1.2.
e)
The alteration or removal of any native vegetation (including the roots) when it is part
of a continuous, naturally occurring area of native vegetation in the Residential 2A,
2A1 and 2B zones.
Also the following are not protected: Any tree species grown primarily for its edible fruit [except Walnut,
Chestnut, Pecan nut, and Carob], any plant or tree listed as a pest in the Auckland Regional Plant Pest
Management strategy or listed as a National Surveillance Plant pest under the Biosecurity Act 1993 or
any subsequent amendments.
Unitary Plan
Par 3 Regional and District Rules
Chapter H
Auckland-wide rules
General Tree Protection
Natural resources
Vegetation management
Activity table Vegetation management all zones and roads
Riparian
Vegetation alteration or removal within 10m of urban streams - RD
60 Tiri Tiri Ave, Birkdale – Page 2 of 24
Unitary Plan
Par 3 Regional and District Rules
Chapter H
Auckland-wide rules
General Tree Protection
Natural resources
Vegetation management
Vegetation management in overlays
Significant Ecological Areas
Any vegetation alteration or removal D
North Shore City District Plan
Plan Change 23
8.4.2 Protection of Habitats and Streams
For the purposes of this rule, a riparian margin is the area within 20 metres of the edge of any
stream in the rural or urban expansion zones, or within 10 metres of the edge of any stream in
all other zones (except in the Long Bay Structure Plan Area). In the case of intermittent
streams, the above distances shall be measured from the centreline of the stream.
8.4.2.1 Permitted Activities
a)
The removal of vegetation in accordance with Rule 8.4.6.1.1 (General Tree Protection
Permitted Activities), and replanting for the purpose of rehabilitation or enhancement
of riparian margin functions, in accordance with the following performance standards:
i)
Removal of weed tree species should only occur above ground with the root
mass retained in the soil for the purposes of avoiding unnecessary soil
disturbance and increasing instability within the riparian margin. This should
be undertaken in such a way as to ensure that vegetation removed will not
regenerate and re-establish within the riparian margin (e.g. cut stumps are
painted with a chemical gel or paste); and
ii)
No more than 50m2 of soil is to be exposed within the riparian margin within a
site at any one time; and
Areas of exposed soil are to be immediately stabilised with mulch to prevent
erosion and assist with the success of subsequent replanting with suitable
native species; and
iii)
iv)
Replanting is to be completed as soon as practicable and no later than the
end of the first available planting season (April – September); and
v)
Replanting is to comprise predominantly suitable native species, to be
undertaken at appropriate densities, and involve on-going maintenance as
appropriate, to ensure the long term success of the replanting and
achievement of enhanced riparian margin functions.
b)
The maintenance of continuous grassed lawn areas (lawn mowing) and any
disturbance of the land directly associated with domestic gardening. (For the
definition of domestic gardening see Section 21: Definitions).
c)
Fencing for the exclusion of livestock from the riparian margin.
North Shore City District Plan
Plan Change 23
8.4.2.3 Limited Discretionary Activities
a)
In all zones except for rural or urban expansion zones:
Development, and / or the disturbance of soil, natural ground cover or vegetation, or
the deposition of fill or any material within a riparian margin, that is not a permitted or
controlled activity, where encroachment within the riparian margin exceeds 10% of
the total area of the riparian margin on a site, and occurs within the outer 5 metres of
the margin.
60 Tiri Tiri Ave, Birkdale – Page 3 of 24
North Shore City District Plan
Plan Change 23
8.4.2.4 Discretionary Activities (Plan Change 23)
a)
Development, and / or the disturbance of soil, natural ground cover or
vegetation, or the deposition of fill or any material within a riparian margin, that is not
a permitted, controlled or limited discretionary activity.
b)
The diversion or modification of any natural watercourses waterway including
intermittent streams in any zone.
5.
The Proposal
5.1.
Arborlab’s client, Valiant Homes proposes to sub-divide and develop the site of
number 60 Tiri Tiri Road, Birkdale. The subdivision proposal involves the creation of
eleven lots from an existing single lot at the aforementioned addresses. The layout
and orientation of the proposed sub-division is depicted in Appendix 3.
5.2.
This site currently has no dwelling and is considered to be a previously undeveloped
site. The dimension of this area as measured on Auckland Councils GIS is 11,415m2.
5.3.
All sites are proposed to be accessed from the cul-de-sac from Tiri Tiri Road. These
will be accessed from a single central road which includes piled bridging structures to
elevate the road from the stream and riparian margin area. This road will also include
a 10m truck turning circle for large rigid vehicles and property servicing.
5.4.
This proposal involves small multi-level dwellings constructed on piles for all
properties. This design concept is important as this allows for the most sensitive
means of construction when considering bulk earth works and associated vegetation
alteration. It is also identified that no cut and fill plan has been supplied for this
development.
5.5.
Other key aspects of this proposal include covenanting approximately 50% of the site
as well as protection and enhancement of the riparian margin areas. These areas
accumulate to be to be approximately 65% of the total site area.
5.6.
It is noted that the services are not identified on the site plans supplied; therefore no
comments are made in relation to their location, installation and effect. However
these are normally located in common areas which in this instance would be
accompanying the site works for the creation of the internal access road which would
require alteration in this location.
5.7.
Within the site of number 60 there are numerous trees and other vegetation, many of
which are protected. The topographical survey in Appendix 3 depicts many of the
large trees within the development area. Given the high density of these trees and
vegetation, this site is generally described only with species observed listed in Tables
1 and 2 located in Section 8 of this report.
5.8.
Table 1 identifies 13 indigenous tree species in this location along with 3 exotic tree
species. Table 2 identifies 20 non-protected pest plants which were observed from a
cursory survey. It is acknowledged that within the eastern and development area, the
density of pest plants can be described a predominant.
60 Tiri Tiri Ave, Birkdale – Page 4 of 24
5.9.
The area described as continuous, naturally occurring area of native vegetation
depicting protected vegetation is indicated in Appendix 2 as determined by the
Assessing Arborist.
5.10.
Numerous protected and non-protected trees and vegetation will need to be removed
to facilitate the proposed development. Trees and vegetation will also need to be
retained and protected at this site requiring isolation for site works and alteration such
as pruning and works within their protected root zones.
5.11.
Finally an initial review was undertaken in December 2012, as well as a follow up site
visit with the surveyor on Tuesday the 15th of January 2013, recording the affected
vegetation. From this assessment it has been determined that the proposal requires
resource consent as a Discretionary Activity.
6.
Site
6.1.
The subject site is located between the terminations of three cul-de-sac roads; these
are Tiri Tiri Road, Fordham Street and Japonica Drive.
6.2.
This site is acknowledged as a non “Urban Environment” according to the RMA,
definitions give this property meets none of the relevant criteria.
6.3.
Vegetation at this site is considered variable however through throughout.
6.4.
The topography at the northern and southern sides of the main stream slope, steeply
downwards from the property boundaries in these locations.
60 Tiri Tiri Ave, Birkdale – Page 5 of 24
7.
Site Aerial
Figure 1; Above depicts the subject site from an aerial photograph.
Figure 2; below depicts the topography over this site.
60 Tiri Tiri Ave, Birkdale – Page 6 of 24
8.
Arboricultural Assessment
8.1.
All observations are concluded from two site visits only and limited to a Visual Tree
Assessment (VTA) conducted from ground level; therefore any findings and
recommendations are limited to this assessment.
8.2.
The density of vegetation was also a limitation in adequately photographing the
subject trees as described in this section.
8.3.
The proposed development design was not present when undertaken the survey in
reference to capturing the most affected areas.
8.4.
It is also acknowledged that the site survey was interrupted by a large unfenced and
unchained dog therefore this can be described as limitation to this assessment.
8.5.
Table 1 – Trees Observed
Species
#
Species
Common name
Comment
1
Melicytus ramiflorus
Mahoe / Whiteywood
Major tree species at this site.
2
Kunzea ericoides
Kanuka
Major tree species at this site.
3
Cyathea dealbata
Ponga / Silver fern
Secondary tree species at this
site.
4
Myrsine australis
Mapou / Red matipo
Secondary tree species at this
site.
5
Coprosma robusta
Karamu
Secondary tree species at this
site.
6
Coprosma grandiflora
Kanono
Secondary tree species at this
site.
7
Myrsine australis
Mapou / Red matipo
Secondary tree species at this
site.
8
Geniostoma ligustrifolium
Hangehange
Secondary tree species at this
site.
9
Cordyline australis
Ti kouka / Cabbage tree
Few specimens amongst other
trees.
10
Schefflera digitata
Patē / Seven-finger
Few specimens amongst other
trees.
11
Weinmannia silvicola
Tōwai
A couple of specimens
observed.
12
Alectryon excelsus
Titoki
One quality specimen observed.
60 Tiri Tiri Ave, Birkdale – Page 7 of 24
Species
#
Species
Common name
Comment
13
Knightia excelsa
Rewarewa
One semi-mature tree observed.
14
Pinus radiata
Monterey pine
Few located within this site.
15
Pinus patula
Mexican weeping pine
Large tree located within an
adjacent property.
16
Liquidambar styraciflua
American sweetgum
Large tree located within an
adjacent property.
8.6.
Table 1 above lists the desirable vegetation located at this site with trees with the
most frequent species listed at the top and decreasing from there. The most
dominant of the desirable tree species within the eastern area surveyed at this site
are mahoe and kanuka.
8.7.
This site can generally be described as being highly vegetated. This is supported by
the greatest majority of pest plants found at this preferring to grow within a shaded
environment. These plants are (Chinese privet, jasmine, wandering jew and ginger).
8.8.
It could easily be observed that the vegetation quality was at its poorest and
completely dominated by pest plants in the eastern area and improving in quality
towards the stream and west.
8.9.
Over the steam and towards the western side of this property, native tree density
increased with improving tree maturity and species diversity. This western side of the
property is the area which is proposed to be covenanted and preserved.
8.10. With regard to individual specimens the following tree species were identified:

A few mature cabbage trees were observed at the eastern side of the property
which can be described as quality specimens.

Mature kanuka at high density are located on the steep slopes of lots 6 and 10.
These trees are proposed to be retained.

One semi-mature rewerawa was identified at the north eastern portion of the site.
This tree has been captured due as this is one of the few climax species within
the eastern portion of the site.

One titoki was identified reasonably centrally within the site and within the
development area. This tree is photographed in Appendix 1 and is considered to
be the most superior individual tree identified. This tree is proposed to be
retained.

Two tōwai trees were identified, these were poor specimens with one having
rotated adjacent to the stream. These were captured due to their infrequency on
the North Shore. From conversations with Council’s ecologist Mr Peter
60 Tiri Tiri Ave, Birkdale – Page 8 of 24
Anderson, it is understood other, superior specimens are located in the western
area which is proposed to be preserved.
8.11. With regard to the numerous pest plants present, Table 2 on page 8 details the
numerous pest plant species observed with the eastern area of the site.
8.12. Table 2 – Pest Plant Species Observed.
Species
#
Species
Common name
Comment
1
Tradescantia fluminensis
Wandering jew
Formal pest plant.
2
Ligustrum sinense
Chinese privet
Formal pest plant.
3
Hedychium gardnerianum
Kahili ginger
Formal pest plant.
4
Bambusa sp.
Bamboo
Invasive species.
5
Ligustrum lucidum
Tree privet
Formal pest plant.
6
Acacia mearnsii
Black wattle
Invasive species.
7
Salix fragilis
Crack willow
Formal pest plant.
8
Lonicera japonica
Japanese honeysuckle
Formal pest plant.
9
Jasminum polyanthum
Jasmine
Formal pest plant.
10
Cortaderia selloana
Pampus
Formal pest plant.
11
Zantedeschia aethiopica
Arum lily
Formal pest plant.
12
Monstera deliciosa
Fruit salad plant
Formal pest plant.
13
Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora
Montbretia
Formal pest plant.
14
Paraserianthes lophantha
Brush wattle
Formal pest plant.
15
Solanum mauritianum
Woolly nightshade
Formal pest plant.
16
Convolvulus arvensis
Field bindweed
Invasive species.
60 Tiri Tiri Ave, Birkdale – Page 9 of 24
Species
#
Species
Common name
Comment
17
Asparagus asparagoides
smilax
Formal pest plant.
18
Ipomoea indica
Blue morning glory
Formal pest plant.
19
Hydrangea sp.
Hydrangea
Pest in this location.
20
Pinus radiata
Monterey pine
Pest in this location.
9.
Arborists Comments
9.1.
Clearly the landscape within the eastern portion of the site at number 60 Tiri Tiri
Road will be highly modified through the creation of 11 new lots and dwellings as well
as an access road. However the value of the tree stock in this location should not be
a limitation to this due to the limited quality as described in this location.
9.2.
With regard to the residential zoning, this site is zoned 2A which seeks to preserve
the landscape and habitat values which characterise the subject land, such as
sizable blocks or continuous corridors of native bush as well as natural watercourses.
Strategies used to promote these values; include the number of lots on which a
dwelling may be sited which shall not exceed one for every 1000m² and the vesting
of reserve land or covenanting.
9.3.
At number 60 Tiri Tiri Road lot sizes are maintained within the criteria enabling the
highest quality area of native bush and ecological significance to be preserved within
a convent. Given the above, Arborlab’s client can be described as conforming to the
requirements and maintaining the natural values whilst seeking the project objectives.
9.4.
The vegetation within the eastern area has been identified as generally low in quality
and none of which being a limitation to the development, it should be acknowledged
that the cumulative effect of this vegetation including the pest plants do have positive
function for ecology such as provisions of habitat, stream shading and erosion
control. Given the above, ecological expertise are required to make a full assessment
in relation to the effects of this proposal.
9.5.
Notwithstanding the above, arboricultural expertise will be required in the
determination of alterations affecting trees including works within the root zone.
9.6.
It is acknowledged that while numerous trees and shrubs will require removal for the
proposal, through sensitive development practices and a strong emphasis on
mitigation planting. The activities as described above and proposed are considered
likely to provide a desirable, treed living environment with very limited open area to
provide the opportunity for pest plant ingress.
60 Tiri Tiri Ave, Birkdale – Page 10 of 24
10.
Recommendations
10.1.
A site meeting should take place with Council’s Consenting Arborist, Council’s
Ecologist and the surveyor to identify the extent of vegetation removal required
including the location of the road access and the new building platforms.
10.2.
All works are to be undertaken by contractors suitably trained and experienced in
undertaking removals which avoids unnecessary damage or disturbance of any
retained vegetation and root zone area. (For example; sectional felling in conjunction
with modern rigging techniques where required.)
10.3.
Regarding works within the protected root zone of retained trees the assessing
arborist has proposed a robust generic construction summation and methodology
which can avoid any adverse effect with flexibility in construction and design. For this
reason these methodologies are recommended to be conditioned as part of consent
in the absence of specific location and construction details.
10.4.
All works relating to trees subject to this consent shall be undertaken in accordance
with the recommendations, guidance and methodologies embodied in Arborlab’s
report dated 17th January 2014, file reference 19156.
11.
Tree Protection Methodology Summation

Site pre-commencement meeting will be held and documented, including an
invitation to Council’s Consenting Arborist at least 3 working days prior.

All trees identified for retention will be sufficiently identified at the precommencement meeting to the satisfaction of Council’s Consenting Arborist.

Adherence to control methods as specified as conditions of consent.

Creation of temporary surfacing within protected root zones as applicable.

Erection of any tree protection barriers and silt control as applicable.

It will be identified and recorded where and when the works arborist will need to
be onsite to supervise any works within the root zone, including all excavations.

No tracking of machinery will be permitted in the protected root zone, unless on
hard surfacing or temporary surfacing.

It will be identified where machinery will operate and where materials can be
stored.

Protection materials will be used when pouring concrete as required.
60 Tiri Tiri Ave, Birkdale – Page 11 of 24
12.
Reporting
Item
Reporting
Pre-commencement meeting
Pre-commencement minutes – Memorandum
Tree removal and pruning
Monthly memorandum
Tree protection in place
Separate immediate Memorandum if incidence
of non-compliance or adverse effect
Excavations adjacent to trees
Construction around trees
Confirmation of pruning
Final inspection
Final memorandum upon completion
13.
General Tree Protection Methodology to be Adhered to
13.1.
A full copy of the consent will be on site at all times.
13.2.
A suitably qualified and experienced Council approved arborist (works arborist) shall
be engaged by the consent holder at the start of the project to supervise works with
the root zone / dripline of the identified trees. The appointed works arborist must be
experienced in tree protection systems and construction methodologies, and will
need to be able to co-ordinate site works ensuring that the tree protection
methodology is correctly implemented.
13.3.
Prior to works commencing, the consent holder shall arrange for a documented precommencement meeting. This meeting should include the consent holder, site
foreman, contractor and the appointed works arborist. At this meeting, the parties
shall agree with the works arborist:









13.4.
The methodology and timing of the works;
Site plan and the itemised trees and the proposal;
The nature and placement of protective fencing;
Site access and areas for manoeuvring vehicles and machinery;
Areas for storing and/or stockpiling materials, spoil and equipment;
Location of works and any excavations required;
Care and control methods;
The conditions of the consent;
When and locations where the appointed works arborist is required on site.
No work shall take place within the root zone of retained trees without prior approval
from the works arborist. Any amendments to the tree protection methodology shall
require prior written approval from the works arborist, written confirmation of which
shall be forwarded to Council.
60 Tiri Tiri Ave, Birkdale – Page 12 of 24
13.5.
It shall be the consent holder’s responsibility to ensure that all persons engaged or
otherwise to work on the site are made aware of the conditions of consent, and that
those conditions are adhered to at all times.
13.6.
At the completion of works, the works arborist at his/her discretion shall provide
completion reporting to Council detailing compliance with condition of consent and
detailing anticipated effects including photos. The account of works shall include, but
not be limited to:


The effects of the works to the subject trees;
Any remedial work which may be necessary.
13.7.
Prior to works commencing, a suitable protective fence shall be erected around the
retained trees. The exact location and nature of the protective fence shall first be
agreed upon with the works arborist. For the duration of time the protective fence is
in place, the area enclosed by the fence shall be regarded as sacrosanct, and no
material is to be stored, emptied or disposed of within the area enclosed by the
protective fence. No person, vehicle or machinery may enter the area enclosed by
the protective fence unless otherwise authorised to do so by the works arborist.
13.8.
If for any reason it becomes necessary to move the protective fencing, then for the
duration of time that the protective fence is not in place, the area which was
previously enclosed by the fence shall be regarded in the same manner as if the
protective fence were still in place.
13.9.
No material is to be stored, emptied or disposed of in or around the root zone of any
of the trees unless otherwise authorised to do so by the works arborist. Any material
which is to be stored or temporarily placed in or around the root zone of any of the
trees shall be stored carefully on an existing or temporary hard surface.
13.10. If during the course of the works, machinery or vehicle access/manoeuvring is
required in or around the root zone of any of the trees, then depending on the nature
of the loading of the machinery or vehicle, it may be necessary to cover those areas
with a protective overlay sufficient to protect the ground from being muddied,
compacted, churned up or otherwise disturbed (for example track mats or similar
product).
13.11. If machinery/vehicles are to be operated or stored within the root zone area on an
existing or temporary load bearing surface, then the machinery/vehicle shall not
cause any detrimental effect to the tree(s) through compaction, physical damage,
spillage of lubricants and fuels or discharge of waste emissions.
13.12. All excavations which are to take place in or around the root zone of any of the trees
shall be done so in conjunction with the Works arborist, through a careful
combination of machine excavation, hydro-excavation and hand digging, and to the
satisfaction of the works arborist.
13.13. When working within the root zone of trees using a hydro-excavator, the water
pressure of the hydro-excavator shall be adjusted accordingly to the satisfaction of
the works arborist in order that the roots are not stripped of bark or vascular tissues.
Where this is not possible the operator shall modify the distance he/she is holding
60 Tiri Tiri Ave, Birkdale – Page 13 of 24
the nozzle of the water jet such that the pressure of the emerging water is
adequately reduced/dispersed to the same effect.
13.14. Where roots to be retained are encountered during the process of hydro-excavation,
the emerging water jet shall be directed away from all exposed roots. The roots shall
be carefully exposed by the works arborist and a robust protective covering capable
of protecting the exposed roots from further water jets shall be wrapped around the
root until such a time that it can be removed and more appropriate material can be
used.
13.15. Any roots which are encountered during any part of the process are to be retained
where possible. Every effort shall be made to retain all roots 35mm in diameter or
greater and the severance of any root less than 35mm shall be done so at the
discretion of the works arborist. Where roots are to be severed, they shall be cut
cleanly by the works arborist with a sharp hand saw, loppers or secateurs. The area
around the root shall be backfilled with the original material.
13.16. When a root greater than 35mm in diameter is impeding the construction and all
other alternatives to work around the root have been exhausted, the supervising
works arborist shall only remove the root if he/she determines that its removal will not
be detrimental to the health and stability of the tree.
13.17. Where roots to be retained are encountered and there is need for these roots to
remain exposed in order that works are not impeded, then those roots shall be
covered with a suitable protective material (such as moist Hessian, or a wool mulch)
in order to protect them from desiccation and/or mechanical damage, until such a
time as the area around the root can be back filled with the original material. The
wrapping or covering of any roots shall be undertaken by the works arborist.
13.18. If during the works, there are large areas of the root zone exposed, then it may be
necessary to protect the roots with a protective overlay sufficient enough to protect
the ground and roots from being disturbed, for example a layer of geotextile fabric
laid over a 150mm thick layer of wood mulch.
13.19. If during the works, it becomes necessary to pour concrete and/or lay asphalt directly
over exposed roots, all exposed roots shall first be covered with a protective layer of
polythene to prevent the concrete from contacting any exposed root. Fine sand is
considered suitable when no less than 75mm thick and a layer geotextile fabric shall
be placed over the roots prior to pouring the concrete/asphalt.
14.
General Assessment Criteria (8.4.6.6.1)
14.1.
General assessment criteria the Council will assess applications affecting protected
trees with regard to the assessment criteria for Limited Discretionary Activities (rule
8.4.6.6).
a)
Where the removal or destruction of a tree (or trees) is proposed, the Council
must be satisfied that circumstances exist to warrant removal, which may
include dangerous, diseased or damaged conditions; compliance with any
statutory or legal obligation; or undue interference with the reasonable
60 Tiri Tiri Ave, Birkdale – Page 14 of 24
enjoyment of land and/or adjoining land of residential zoning for residential
purposes.
Comment:
b)
The extent of the trimming and maintenance of the tree(s).
Comment:
c)
Generic methodologies have been proposed to preserve trees which can be
retained as part of this development.
The extent to which the tree(s) or area of bush contributes to the amenity of the
neighbourhood, both visually and physically, including as a habitat for birds
and other animals.
Comment:
h)
None considered suitable, however where identified through the consenting
process, small tree relocation would be appropriate to reduce tree loss and
overall effect
Whether or not the proposed activities within the root zone are, in the opinion
of the Council, likely to damage the tree(s) or endanger its (their) health.
Comment:
g)
Limited civil works and natural alteration are critical to the feasibility of the
development and reducing the anticipated impacts.
Whether the tree(s) can be relocated.
Comment:
f)
Ecological assessment should be sought in reference to this assessment.
Any alternative methods which may be available to the applicant in the
achievement of his/her objectives including consideration of an application for
flexibility in respect of any development control where this would encourage
retention and enhancement of existing large trees on the site.
Comment:
e)
Anticipated trimming of retained trees would be allowed for as a Permitted
Activity to be undertaken by a competent professional.
The extent to which the viability of the native bush would be adversely
affected, including cumulative effects.
Comment:
d)
Yes, tree removals are required to facilitate the development as proposed.
Ecological assessment should be sought in reference to this assessment.
Any function the tree(s) or area of bush may have in conservation of water and
soil.
Comment:
Ecological assessment should be sought in reference to this assessment.
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i)
Whether proposed landscaping or revegetation can compensate for any loss
envisaged.
Comment:
j)
Yes, this is expected to be conditioned though a landscape planting
requirement. 100 percent canopy close and pest plant management are
expected to be requirements of a granted consent.
The extent to which the tree(s) or vegetation contributes to the historical,
social and/or cultural attributes of a site and surrounding environment.
Comment:
No information has been obtained to support the above. However this area is
not identified under the Unitary Plan as a manna whenua site, there this does
not support any known cultural values.
14.2. The following assessment criteria have been proposed as part of the Auckland
Council Unitary Plan which was notified on 30th September 2013 which is now
operative and forms part of the assessment criteria when Councils officers are
assessing applications for vegetation alteration within a significant ecological area as
follows:
4.2 Assessment criteria
1. Vegetation alteration or removal
a.
Whether the vegetation alteration or removal is minimised and the extent to
which adverse effects on the ecological and indigenous biodiversity values of
the vegetation are able to be avoided, remedied or mitigated
Comment:
b.
Ecological assessment should be sought in reference to this assessment and
response. However a generic tree protection methodology has been proposed
seeking the protection for retained trees and vegetation from normal
construction damage.
The degree to which the vegetation serves to avoid or mitigate natural
hazards and the amount of vegetation to be retained or enhanced
Comment:
Ecological assessment should be sought in reference to this assessment and
response
c.
The degree to which vegetation alteration or removal will adversely affect soil
conservation, water quality and the hydrological function of the catchment
and measures to avoid remedy or mitigate any adverse effects
Comment:
Ecological assessment should be sought in reference to this assessment and
response.
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d.
The effect of the vegetation alteration or removal on amenity, landscape and
natural character values particularly on adjacent public space including the
CMA, coast, reserves and walkways and measures to avoid, remedy or mitigate
any adverse effects
Comment:
With reference to amenity values, as defined in the Resource Management
Act (1991) “amenity values’’ means those natural or physical qualities and
characteristics of an area that contribute to people's appreciation of its
pleasantness, aesthetic coherence, and cultural and recreational attributes”
It is understood that the dwelling design is proposed to be multi-storeyed with
a small building footprint. However civil works at this site will require large
areas of tree removal for each site and the common access. In the opinion of
the assessing arborist and through tree planting and tree retention, urban
amenity is not expected to be reduced, however tree loss is expected.
e.
The alternative locations and methods which may be available to the applicant
to achieve their objectives, including consideration of an application to infringe
any development control where this would encourage retention and
enhancement of vegetation on the site
Comment:
f.
The extent to which revegetation can remedy or mitigate adverse effects
including ecosourcing and the ongoing maintenance of revegetation
measures
Comment:
g.
Vegetation removal appears to be unavoidable in this location given the site. It
is also noted the topography is important at this site given the desire to retain
the greatest amount to vegetation possible and limit civil works.
Pest and / or pest plant control would be a suitable means strengthen the
remaining vegetation at this site in conjunction with infill planting where
required. Given this is an urban site, there is limited value in ecosourcing in
the opinion of the assessing arborist.
Whether conditions of consent can avoid remedy or mitigate adverse effects
including the imposition of bonds, covenants or similar instruments
Comment:
A bush covenant would be a suitable means to protect the remainder of the
bush area which is not anticipated to be affected by this proposal.
h.
Whether the vegetation removal is necessary to mitigate an identified
bushfire risk to existing development
Comment:
Not investigated. No known risk of bush fire at this location.
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i.
Measures to contain and control plant pathogens and diseases such as Kauri
die back including measures for preventing the spread of soil and the safe
disposal of plant material
Comment:
j.
Whether the vegetation removal will improve the reliance and security of the
network utility
Comment:
k.
No known pathogens were identified on site. No kauri (Agathis spp.) elm
(Ulmus spp.) or zelkova (Zelkova spp.) were identified.
Not applicable.
Whether the vegetation clearance is necessary for a structure that has a
functional need to be in the proposed location
Comment:
Not applicable.
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15.
Conclusion
15.1.
Arborlab has surveyed the site and identified the various trees species and pest
plants within the development area. The eastern area of the site can generally be
described being of lower quality in comparison to the western area. This western
area has been concluded due to the greater maturity and diversity as well as a low
pest pant density in this area.
15.2.
The western area as described above is proposed to be covenanted as part of the
sub-division proposal.
15.3.
Within the riparian margin and individual lots mitigation and enhancement planting is
proposed following construction in these locations.
15.4.
With regard to the works within the root zone, Arborlab has proposed a suitable
generic methodology to apply best practice when working around trees identified to
be retained.
15.5.
Finally, it is acknowledged that resource consent will be required to alter and remove
protected trees and vegetation at this site.
15.6.
Please contact the undersigned with any queries concerning this report.
Yours faithfully,
Arborlab Consultancy Services Limited
André Le Claire
Senior Consultant Arborist
PO Box 35 569 Browns Bay, Auckland
Ph 09 379 3302 | Mob 0274 957 422
Email [email protected]
www.arborlab.co.nz
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Appendix 1: Photoset
Figure 3; Depiction of the proposed entrance to the site.
Figure 4; Depiction of the eastern area and pest plants.
Figure 5; Depiction of a mature cabbage tree.
Figure 6; Depiction of large crack willows.
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Figure 7; Depiction of kanuka tree girth.
Figure 8; Depiction of the titoki tree.
Figure 9; Depiction of the stream.
Figure 10; Depiction of the understory vegetation.
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Appendix 2: Vegetation Inventory (ALC-19156)
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Appendix 3: Site Plan – Topographic Survey (McKay Knarston – Feb 2013 Drawing Number 12012-6)
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Appendix 4: Site Plan – Overall Site Plan
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