A small stand of aging pine trees will be removed in the Queenstown Gardens to allow for the planting of a number of 'one-off' specimen trees, Queenstown Lakes District Council parks manager Gordon Bailey said.

"We have identified around 20 trees that have got to the point where they're potentially dangerous, in addition to stifling the growth of other neighbouring exotic trees," Mr Bailey said.

An independent aborist had assessed the trees and recommended that they be removed before they fell down.

"It actually opens up a number of exciting options for us in terms of introducing new species in the area where we will clear the trees, perhaps even some sculpture," Mr Bailey said.

The work was part of an ongoing 'big picture' project to raise the standard of the Queenstown Gardens.

"Part of that has included the recent addition of six new rose gardens, that's around 200 new bushes, featuring New Zealand varieties such as Kate Sheppard," Mr Bailey said.

The council was also investigating an upgrade of all walkways through the gardens.

"It's a fantastic asset that's in need of some rejuvenation," Mr Bailey said.

The pines were expected to be removed over the next few weeks, with a temporary detour required on the gardens track.

ENDS

For further information please contact Gordon Bailey 03 441 0499.

By: Sarah