Powerco

Tree Trimming

Large-growing trees such as pines, macrocarpa and willows can be a problem when growing near power lines.

With changing weather patterns and frequent storms, trees near lines often cause a loss of power and dangerous situations. Trees falling across power lines or growing close to lines can cause power outages. They can also cause fires and break lines, causing major safety hazards.

Trees and shrubs should be kept well clear of power lines. Greater clearance is ideal given the rapid growth of many trees. Felling unwanted trees may be a better option than trimming.

Don’t be tempted to do it yourself

There are considerable safety issues around trimming and felling trees near power lines. It is extremely hazardous and requires the appropriate skills, and specialised safety equipment and procedures.

The Department of Labour has issued an Occupational Safety and Health Approved Code of Practice for tree work. The code specifies that you can’t trim trees near power lines, only an approved contractor can.

Think twice before you arrange to trim or fell trees. The safety risks for you and your neighbours are too great to do it yourself. You could also be liable for any damage that occurs to the lines network or in the event of an accident during tree trimming. By far the safest approach is to get in the experts with specialist skills and equipment.

Click here to find out about Powerco's rural tree campaign - you could be in to win some great prizes.

Where to Plant

If you’re considering planting trees or shrubs, the choices you make now about placement and type will save future problems. Many smaller trees and shrubs are suitable for planting near overhead lines and still provide good shelter. Powerco suggests you look for plants that will not grow above 4m high.

Click here for information about trees and power supply (side one)
Click here for information about trees and power supply (side two)

No interest tree request form

Approved Contractors

Regulations require Powerco to pay for the first cut so trees that meet the criteria are a safe distance away from power lines.

The tree owner is then responsible for arranging a Powerco approved contractor to keep trees from the lines in future. Funding subsequent cuts is the responsibility of the tree owner.

Approved contractors for the  first cuts are underlined. The other contractors are availble for subsequent cuts.

Thames/Valley/Coromandel, Tauranga
Asplundh - Phone 0800 4 ASPLUNDH (0800 4277 586)
Arbor Care Ltd - Phone 0800 ARBOR CARE (07 5431775)
Treescape - Phone 0800 TREEWORK (09 873396)

Taranaki
Asplundh - Phone 0800 4 ASPLUNDH (0800 4277 586)
Treescape - Phone 0800 TREEWORK (09 873396)
Tree Truck Ltd - 06 348 2110

Wanganui
Arborco - Phone 06 344 4446
Treescape - Phone 0800 TREEWORK (09 873396)
Tree Truck Ltd - 06 348 2110
Asplundh - Phone 0800 4 ASPLUNDH (0800 4277 586)

Palmerston North
Arborco - Phone 0508 ARBORCO (0508 2726 726)
Treescape - Phone 0800 TREEWORK (09 873396)
Tree Truck Ltd - 06 348 2110

Wairarapa
J & L Cummings -Phone 06 377 2282
Treescape - Phone 0800 TREEWORK (09 873396)