On 10 December, a critical job was received following reports that a large pine tree adjacent to Takapuna Golf Club had been struck by lightning. In line with our KPI requirements as a contractor to Auckland Council, a scoping arborist attended site within two hours to assess the damage.
Initial inspection identified significant spiral cracking; however, there were no immediate structural concerns. A follow-up inspection was therefore scheduled for two months later.
At the two-month reassessment, the pine tree was found to be completely dead. During this inspection, a row of pine trees along the edge of Takapuna Golf Course, adjacent to the high‑volume Level 2 road (Northcote Road), was also assessed. Eight additional pine trees were identified as being in decline and at risk of future failure.
Our findings and recommendations were submitted to the Auckland Council arborist. Following further site visits and assessments, Auckland Council requested the removal of a total of nine large pine trees.
Due to the proximity of the trees to a high‑volume Level 2 road and the nearby motorway on‑ramp, a crane‑assisted removal was identified as the safest and most practical approach. A 160‑tonne crane was used to remove large sections of up to eight tonnes at a time. This method minimised impact to the surrounding environment, improved efficiency and cost effectiveness, and significantly reduced risk to both arborists and the public, while limiting disruption to traffic and public spaces.
Contract Supervisor Adrie Weuring worked closely with Chris Nicholls, Project Manager (PV), to plan a compliant and safe site setup, including lane and footpath closures on the busy roadway.
The 160‑tonne crane was mobilised and set up on site the day prior to works commencing, along with a 10‑tonne digger. Work began after traffic management was established, shortly after 10:00 am.
Three arborist climbers—Adrie, Adam, and Mark—were on site for the operation. Climbers were lifted into the trees individually using the crane. Once positioned, the climber attached chains to balance the load before abseiling partway down the trunk to complete the cut. Each tree was removed in two sections, with crane lifts of up to eight tonnes.
Removed sections were placed in a clearing within the golf course, where the ground crew processed the material using a high‑performance 20‑inch chipper.
All nine trees were successfully removed by 2:00 pm, with minimal impact to the surrounding area and traffic network.
Watch the video here.
