FAQ - TREE QUESTIONS

In New Zealand, a professional arborist typically charges between $75 – $100 per person per hour (excluding GST). 

The exact cost depends on factors like the size and complexity of the job, accessibility, and whether specialised equipment like cranes or stump grinders are needed.

For more accurate pricing, it’s always best to get a free quote from a qualified arborist in your area.

The cost of tree services in Christchurch varies depending on the job

Tree removal typically costs between $250 – $500 for a standard job.

Trimming and pruning range from $75 – $350, depending on tree size and complexity.

Stump removal can cost anywhere from $150 – $500, depending on the stump’s size and accessibility.

For an accurate quote, it’s best to contact a qualified arborist who can assess your specific needs.

• Chainsaw – Essential for cutting and removing branches, limbs, and trees efficiently.
• Pole Saw – Helps reach high branches without climbing.
• Hand Pruners & Loppers – Used for precise trimming and pruning of smaller branches.
• Climbing Gear (Harness & Ropes) – Ensures safety when working at height.
• Handsaw – Ideal for controlled and precise cutting of branches.
• Wood Chipper – Processes branches and tree waste into mulch.
• Helmet with Visor & Ear Protection – Protects against falling debris and noise damage.
• Chainsaw Chaps & Gloves – Provides safety against cuts and abrasions.
• Rigging Equipment (Pulleys & Slings) – Used for controlled lowering of heavy branches.
• Moisture Meter – Helps assess tree health and diagnose issues.

Winter is typically the most affordable time for tree removal, as demand is lower compared to spring and summer. 

During the off-season, arborists may offer discounts of 30% to 40%, helping you save significantly on costs. 

Given that tree removal can be expensive—especially for large or hard-to-access trees—scheduling the job in winter can make a big difference.

• Dead or Dying Tree – If a tree is no longer healthy, it poses a risk of falling.
• Severe Structural Damage – Cracks, splits, or leaning trees may indicate instability.
• Pest or Disease Infestation – If the tree is heavily affected by pests or disease and cannot be saved.
• Proximity to Buildings or Power Lines – Trees growing too close can cause structural damage or safety hazards.
• Storm Damage – Trees weakened by storms may become unstable and dangerous.
• Root Damage – If roots are causing damage to foundations, driveways, or underground utilities.
• Obstructing Views or Sunlight – When a tree blocks light or desired views, removal may be necessary.
• Landscaping Changes – If the tree no longer fits in with a new design or development plan.
• Invasive Species – Some trees grow aggressively and disrupt native ecosystems.
• Safety Concerns – If the tree poses a risk to people, property, or traffic.

The cost of tree removal in New Zealand depends on the tree’s size, location, and the equipment needed. 

Here’s a general breakdown of pricing.

Tree Removal Cost by Size:

🟢 Small Trees (Under 5m) – $500 – $1,000

Examples: -young fruit trees, small decorative trees

Easy removal with minimal equipment required.

🟡 Medium Trees (5m – 10m) – $1,000 – $1,500

Examples - average-sized backyard trees

May require more time and crew, especially if close to fences or structures.

🟠 Large Trees (10m – 20m) – $1,000 – $2,000

Examples - mature natives, large willows, gum trees

Requires more specialised equipment, safety measures, and possibly traffic management.

🔴 Extra-Large Trees (20m+) – $2,000 – $4,500+

Examples - tall pine trees, large gum trees, protected natives

These removals are complex, often requiring cranes, extra crew, and careful dismantling.

Additional Costs to Consider:

Stump grinding – $150 – $500 (depends on size and accessibility)

Difficult access jobs – Extra charges if climbing or cranes are needed

Emergency tree removal – Higher costs for urgent call-outs after storms or hazards

For an accurate quote, contact a qualified arborist. 🌳✅ Call Adam on 0800 220 990 today for a free quote!.

An arborist is a tree care expert who specialises in the planting, maintenance, pruning, and removal of trees, shrubs, and other woody plants. 

Their job is to keep trees healthy, safe, and well-maintained, whether in residential gardens, public spaces, or commercial properties.

Key responsibilities of an arborist

🌳 Tree Pruning & Trimming – Removing dead, damaged, or overgrown branches to improve tree health and structure.

🪵 Tree Removal – Safely cutting down trees that are dead, diseased, or posing a safety risk.

🌱 Tree Planting & Care – Advising on the best trees for different environments and ensuring proper growth.

🛠 Stump Grinding & Removal – Eliminating leftover stumps to prevent regrowth and improve aesthetics.

🔍 Tree Health Assessments – Identifying diseases, pests, or structural issues and providing treatment solutions.

⚠️ Emergency Tree Services – Handling storm-damaged or fallen trees to reduce hazards.

Arborists are also known as tree surgeons, arboriculturists, or tree experts, and they use specialised equipment and knowledge to manage trees safely and effectively. 🌿✅

A chainsaw is the most essential tool for an arborist. It’s used for tree removal, heavy pruning, cutting fallen trees, and removing dead branches. 

Whether shaping a tree or handling storm-damaged limbs, a chainsaw is crucial for day-to-day work. 

Without one, getting through the first few weeks on the job would be nearly impossible!

Spring is generally not the best time to trim or cut trees. 

During this season, pests and diseases become more active, increasing the risk of infection spreading to other trees. Additionally, trees pruned in spring may struggle to heal properly, making them more vulnerable to damage, stress, and infestations. 

For healthier trees, it's best to trim during the dormant months of late autumn or winter.

The best time to cut down a tree is during the dormant season, between late autumn and early spring, when the leaves have fallen off. 

During this time, the tree is less stressed, pests and diseases are less active, and the ground is often firmer, making the removal process safer and more efficient.

In New Zealand, if a tree from a neighbouring property overhangs your land, you have the right to trim branches or roots that cross into your property, but only up to the property boundary. 

However, you cannot damage or remove the tree itself without the owner’s permission.

Both you and your neighbours are responsible for ensuring that trees and large plants do not cause problems for others.

 If an overhanging tree is causing issues, it’s best to discuss the matter with your neighbour first. 

If the tree poses a danger or is blocking access, your local council may be able to provide guidance.

Tree trimming is commonly referred to as pruning when it involves removing unnecessary or unhealthy branches to improve tree health. Trimming, on the other hand, is typically done to shape a tree and encourage balanced growth.

Tree Pruning – Focuses on removing dead, diseased, or weak branches to promote overall tree health and structure.

Tree Trimming – Helps control overgrowth, improve appearance, and allow better light penetration.

Both processes use tools like shears, saws, and trimmers, depending on the size and type of branches being cut.

In New Zealand, professional arborists typically charge between $75 – $100 per person per hour (excluding GST). Prices can vary depending on factors such as:

The complexity and size of the job

Accessibility and location of the tree

Specialised equipment required

Whether additional services like stump grinding or waste removal are included.

For larger projects or emergency tree work, some companies may offer fixed quotes instead of hourly rates. 

It's always best to get a detailed quote upfront to understand the full cost of the service.

The best tree trimming technique depends on the type of tree and the goal of the trim. However, proper pruning methods help maintain tree health, structure, and appearance. Key techniques include:

Cut Back to a Bud or Branch – Always trim back to a healthy bud or branch rather than leaving stubs. This encourages healthy regrowth.

Select Outward-Facing Buds – Cutting to a bud that faces outward helps prevent branches from growing inward and crisscrossing.

Avoid Over-Pruning – Removing too much foliage at once can stress the tree and affect its ability to produce energy.

Use the Three-Cut Method for Large Branches – To prevent tearing, make an initial notch cut on the underside of the branch, then a second cut further out to remove the branch. Finish with a clean cut at the branch collar.

Trim at the Right Time of Year – Most trees respond best to trimming in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Using these techniques ensures that trees stay strong, healthy, and well-shaped.

The best time to trim trees in New Zealand is late winter to early spring (July to September).

Deciduous trees - Trim before new growth starts to see the structure clearly.

Less stress - Pruning in dormancy helps trees recover faster.

Healthier growth - Reduces risk of disease and pest infestations.

Cut back to a bud or branch for healthy growth.

• Choose buds facing outward to direct growth away from the tree’s interior.
• Avoid crisscrossing branches by trimming strategically.
• Encourage strong structure by maintaining open space within the tree.

The cost of removing a tree  in Canterbury and Christchurch by an arborist depends on the size, type, and location of the tree, as well as the equipment needed for safe removal. Below is a general price guide based on tree height relative to a one-story, two-story, or three-story house:

Small Tree (One-Story House Size) – $250 to $500

Medium Tree (Two-Story House Size) – $600 to $1,200

Large Tree (Three-Story House Size or Taller) – $1,500 to $3,000+

Additional Costs:

Some jobs may require specialised equipment like cranes, cherry pickers, or stump grinders, which can increase the overall cost. 

Trees in hard-to-reach areas, near power lines, or with complex branch structures may also require extra safety measures, adding to the price.

For an accurate quote, contact a professional arborist to assess your specific tree removal needs. ✅ Call Adam: 0800 220 990 for expert advice and a free estimate. 🌳

Tree removal costs depend on tree size, location, and complexity. Call us for a free estimate.

The cheapest time of year for tree removal is during the winter months (June to August in New Zealand). 

During this period, demand for arborist services is lower compared to the busy spring and summer seasons, which means you could save 30% to 40% on the cost of tree removal.

However, winter is also a popular time for proactive property owners to book tree work, as arborists can work more efficiently without dense foliage. 

It’s a good idea to book in advance to secure a spot, as schedules can fill up quickly.

For the best price and availability, call Adam today: 0800 220 990 and get a free quote! ✅ 🌳

You know if a tree is too close to your house when.

Branches touching the roof – Can cause damage, block gutters, and lead to moisture issues.

Roots near the foundation – May weaken the structure, crack concrete, or disrupt plumbing.

Risk of falling branches – Storms or high winds could bring down limbs, causing costly repairs.

Limited sunlight & ventilation – Dense trees too close to the house can lead to dampness and mould issues.

Cracks in walls or driveways – May indicate root intrusion affecting your property’s stability.

If you’re unsure, book a professional inspection to assess the risks. ✅ Call Adam: 0800 220 990 for expert advice! 🌳

Removing a pōhutukawa tree from your property isn’t as simple as cutting it down. 

As a native New Zealand tree, pōhutukawa are often protected under local council regulations, meaning you may need special permission to remove or even prune them.

Before taking any action, check with your local council to see if consent is required. Removing a protected tree without approval can result in fines or penalties.

✅ Need advice? Call Adam: 0800 220 990 for expert guidance on tree removal and pruning!

Deciding whether to cut down a tree comes down to safety, health, and practicality. If the tree is damaged, diseased, or dying, with cracks, peeling bark, hollow trunks, or multiple dead branches, it may be beyond saving. Trees with fungal growth, insect infestations, or root rot can weaken over time, posing a fall risk. Structural concerns, like a sudden lean, weak 'Y' crotches, or storm damage, may make the tree unstable. If the tree is too close to your home, blocking sunlight, disrupting underground utilities, or outgrowing its space, it might be time to consider removal. Need expert advice? Check out the full list of signs here.

Pruning and trimming are both essential for maintaining healthy trees and shrubs, but they serve different purposes

You prune or trim hedges in New Zealand in 

August late winter Ideal for a major prune before spring growth. 

 November good for shaping and tidying up. 

Important Consideration

Bird Nesting Season: Many native birds nest from August to March. Always check for active nests before trimming to avoid disturbing wildlife. 

Yes, over-pruning a hedge can cause long-term damage. Cutting too far into old wood may prevent future growth, as some hedge species struggle to regenerate from older stems.

 The cost varies depending on the size and condition of your hedges. We offer free quotes to provide an accurate estimate.

Yes, trimming your hedge can indeed make it grow thicker. Here's how:

Encourages Lateral Growth: When you trim the top of your hedge, it stimulates the sides to grow out, leading to a denser appearance. 

SOUND TREE CARE

Stimulates Budding: Pruning promotes the development of new buds below the cut, resulting in more branches and a fuller hedge. 

GARDEN CLEAN UP PROFESSIONALS

Improves Light Penetration: Cutting back overgrown branches allows sunlight to reach inner parts of the plant, encouraging growth in previously shaded areas. 

GARDEN CLEAN UP PROFESSIONALS

Regular trimming not only maintains the desired shape of your hedge but also promotes a thicker, healthier appearance.

 It's generally recommended to trim hedges at least once a year, but some species may require more frequent maintenance.

Absolutely, we ensure that all debris is removed, leaving your property neat and tidy.

 In New Zealand, professional hedge trimming services typically charge around $150 per hour approx for team of 2 people 

With the right equipment and expertise, professionals can often trim and clean up approximately 80% of hedges within an hour. 

This efficiency is achieved by using appropriate tools and techniques, such as setting up ground sheets to catch trimmings, ensuring a thorough and swift service.

In New Zealand, there isn't a specific legal height limit for boundary hedges between neighbours. However, if a hedge becomes problematic, such as by:

Casting excessive shade

Obstructing views

Interfering with the reasonable enjoyment of your property

You can apply to the District Court under the Property Law Act 2007 to seek an order for the hedge to be trimmed or maintained. The court will consider factors like fairness, necessity, and the balance of hardships between parties before making a decision. 

MACTODD LAWYERS

It's advisable to first discuss any concerns with your neighbour to reach an amicable solution before pursuing legal action. 

NZ LAW SOCIETY

In New Zealand, professional arborist companies typically charge between $75 and $100 per person per hour, excluding GST. 

TREELANDS

Considering that arborists usually work in teams of two, this equates to $150–$200 + GST per hour for the team. 

TREELANDS

With the right equipment and expertise, many hedge trimming tasks, including setup and cleanup, can be completed within an hour.