Hahei Pōhutukawa Trees Poisoned: DoC Probe, Fine Up to $300,000

Two pōhutukawa trees at Hahei Beach in New Zealand’s Coromandel have been illegally poisoned, prompting an investigation by the Department of Conservation (DoC). Drill holes discovered around the bases of both trees provide clear evidence of deliberate damage, according to DoC’s Hauraki-Coromandel team.

The affected trees stand within the Hahei Beach Marginal Strip on public conservation land. DoC disclosed the incident in a Facebook post on July 28, 2026, and appealed for information that could identify whoever was responsible.

What was found at Hahei Beach?

Photographs released by DoC show a drilled opening near the bottom of one tree. Investigators will need to determine when the holes were made, what substance was introduced and whether evidence connects the damage to an individual.

DoC has not identified the poison, disclosed a possible motive or announced any suspect. It has also not confirmed how long the trees have been affected. No arrest or charge had been reported when the public appeal was issued.

Why pōhutukawa trees are important

Pōhutukawa are iconic coastal trees known as New Zealand’s Christmas tree because of the bright red flowers they produce around summer. The species also holds an important place in Māori culture and New Zealand’s natural identity.

The flowers supply nectar to tūī, bellbirds and geckos. Birds, insects and spiders use the trunks, bark and canopy for shelter, feeding and breeding. Shags and white-faced herons may nest or roost in mature trees.

Native insects depend on pōhutukawa habitat, while leaf litter beneath the trees supports hardy native snails adapted to coastal conditions. This ecological network shows why habitat protection remains important alongside projects such as the recovery of New Zealand’s critically endangered tara iti.

How pōhutukawa protect the coastline

The trees’ spreading roots help hold coastal soil together and stabilise dunes and cliffs. Losing established trees can therefore remove wildlife habitat while weakening a natural layer of protection against gradual erosion.

The official DoC profile of pōhutukawa identifies damage by people, invasive possums and myrtle rust among the threats facing the species. DoC works with other organisations on habitat restoration, education and monitoring.

Can the poisoned trees survive?

DoC has not said whether either tree can recover or whether treatment has started. Their condition may depend on the chemical used, its quantity, the depth and number of holes and how long the substance has remained inside the trees.

Damage may not become visible immediately if a poison gradually disrupts water and nutrient movement. Specialists may need to examine the leaves, bark, roots and surrounding soil before deciding whether treatment, continued monitoring or removal is necessary.

What penalty could apply?

Damaging, poisoning or destroying native vegetation on public conservation land is a serious offence. DoC says available penalties can include a fine of up to NZ$300,000.

The maximum amount has not been imposed in this case. Any prosecution or fine would depend on identifying the offender, establishing the evidence and determining which legal provisions apply.

The incident reflects the wider challenge of protecting vegetation while maintaining public access to conservation areas. Similar competing interests feature in Fiordland’s wapiti and native vegetation management plan.

How the public can help DoC

Anyone with information about suspicious activity near the Hahei Beach Marginal Strip should contact DoC and quote reference number CLE-12213.

Witness accounts, dates, times, photographs, video footage or vehicle details could help investigators. The next important updates will be the condition of the trees, identification of the substance and whether anyone is charged.