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Two pōhutukawa trees poisoned at popular Coromandel beach

Tuesday, 28 July 2026

DOC said on Tuesday the two trees, located on the Hahei Beach Marginal Strip, had been illegally poisoned and the incident had recently been reported for investigation.
DOC said on Tuesday the two trees, located on the Hahei Beach Marginal Strip, had been illegally poisoned and the incident had recently been reported for investigation.

The Department of Conservation is investigating the suspected deliberate poisoning of two pōhutukawa trees at Hahei Beach after evidence of “drill and fill” holes was found around their bases.

DOC said on Tuesday the two trees, located on the Hahei Beach Marginal Strip, had been illegally poisoned and the incident had recently been reported for investigation.

DOC said the trees’ extensive root systems also helped stabilise coastal soils, dunes and cliffs, protecting them from erosion.
DOC said the trees’ extensive root systems also helped stabilise coastal soils, dunes and cliffs, protecting them from erosion.

The department is appealing for information from the public to help identify those responsible.

Pōhutukawa are among New Zealand’s most recognisable native trees and play an important role in coastal ecosystems, providing food and habitat for birds, insects and other wildlife.

DOC is asking anyone with information about the poisoning to contact the department.
DOC is asking anyone with information about the poisoning to contact the department.

DOC said the trees’ extensive root systems also helped stabilise coastal soils, dunes and cliffs, protecting them from erosion.

Damaging or destroying native vegetation on public conservation land is a serious offence under the Conservation Act.

Those found responsible can face penalties including fines of up to $300,000.

DOC is asking anyone with information about the poisoning to contact the department and quote reference CLE-12213.