I am writing to formally request clarification and an explanation regarding the recent cutting of two lavender bushes that were growing on my property, with some overhang of one onto the public footpath.
On the morning of 5 June 2025, I was shocked to discover that two well-established lavender plants from my garden had been hacked off without any prior notice, communication, or attempt at liaison. I suspect that either Auckland Council or Auckland Transport may have undertaken or authorised this work, which is why I am addressing this message to both agencies.
One of the bushes removed was a smaller plant that projected no more than 20 centimetres onto the pavement. Image attached - you can see the size of the stem that was cut. The other was a mature lavender bush, at least a decade old, which had contributed significantly to the character of the street. Located in front of a 140-year-old heritage home, it produced continuous blooms enjoyed by children and passers-by, some of whom would pick sprigs for their own use. It beautified the streetscape and added value to the property and neighbourhood. It also provided food for urban bee hives in the area that the council itself supports.
No note was left, no one knocked on my door, and I received no prior communication or request to manage or cut back the plants myself. I believe this constitutes a failure of process and is a breach of reasonable community engagement standards. I would have appreciated the opportunity to address any concerns had they been raised with me in advance.
Given the context, I would like to understand:
Who authorised or undertook the cutting of these plants;
Whether Auckland Council or Auckland Transport were involved;
The reason for this action, including any cited safety, measurements taken, or access concerns;
Most importantly, why I was not consulted or contacted prior to the removal.
Additionally, I must raise a matter that may or may not be related. Approximately two weeks ago, a community cat known to residents as Luna—originally owned by residents at 23 Brown Street and now cared for by another neighbour—was attacked by an uncontrolled dog from number 30 Brown Street. The cat was resting under the larger lavender bush, one of her regular safe spots, at the time. The community loved this scene, and the cat loved it because she got pats and morning sunshine. I witnessed the attack, and the current owner requested my support and presence during a discussion with the dog’s owner regarding the veterinary bill (over $1,000) which is now subject to a claim before the Disputes Tribunal. It is not my cat, and I am not involved other than connecting the dog owner and cat owner, and providing a statement on what happened.
While I do not wish to draw definitive conclusions, I raise this situation as a possible vexatious contextual factor that may warrant consideration. The timing of the plant removal, so soon after the dog attack incident, is concerning as the complaint feels like it may be vindictive. I have also had a pot plant smashed and some garden ornaments taken, one of them had been wired to the spot.
To be clear, I am not opposed in principle to responsible trimming of vegetation where there are legitimate safety concerns. However, the complete removal of these plants without discussion or due process is deeply disappointing and, in my view, unacceptable.
I request a written response outlining the reasons for this action, and a full breakdown of who undertook it, on whose authority, and crucially, why I was not contacted prior to the work.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your prompt and detailed response.
Russell Hoban,
Ponsonby.
