Altercation Over Trees

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31107, 9 July 1966, Page 1

Altercation Over Trees

(N.Z. Press Association)

AUCKLAND, July 8.

When workmen began felling trees in Garden road, Remuera, earlier this week, a housewife tried to stop them with a garden hose. Her husband, who arrived later to remonstrate with the workmen, required three stitches in his lip after an exchange of blows.

The Auckland City Council is investigating the felling of nine Australian evergreen trees, believed to be 40 years old, on a council road reserve outside the former Ladies’ College in Garden road.

“The trees were very beautiful,” said Mrs A. M. Gunn, today. “Now there are only two standing.”

Mrs Gunn said that when she saw the trees, being felled she became concerned and asked the men to stop.

“They wouldn’t take any notice, so I got out the garden hose and pointed it at them,” she said.

“They ran off when I turned on the pressure.”

Mrs Gunn said that when her husband arrived, a scuffle occurred during which he received a blow on the lip.

Mr G. Dean, Director of City Council Parks, said today that the trees were on a council road reserve.

“I am deeply distressed over this,” he said. “We cannot afford to lose trees like these.”

In a letter of explanation to the council, Mr P. L Martelli, said that he and Mr W. R. Bradley bought Ladies’ College at auction recently with the intention of subdividing the property. It was thought, he said, that the trees were within the boundary of the pro- * perty.