Commemorative rākau (trees) can be planted to remember a loved one, celebrate a birth, anniversary, special event, honour someone or express appreciation. In the past, these trees could be planted in the Town Belt. Now, our approach is focused on the creation of a commemorative forest in one location, at Mākara Cemetery.
All commemorative trees are planted at Mākara Cemetery, near the Natural Burials section. Please note that this area is accessible by a sloping path. A moderate level of mobility is required.
Commemorative forest location map (1.5MB JPG)
How planting works
When you apply, you will be invited to plant your allocated trees on one of two designated days during the planting season, between July and August each year.
Council staff will be present at the planting to assist you, and all tools, including gloves and spades, will be provided on the day.
You will be able to plant:
- one podocarp tree – slow-growing but long-lived, tall canopy species such as kahikatea, rimu, mataī and miro, and
- a selection of faster-growing but shorter-lived pioneer revegetation species such as mānuka, tarata, kōhūhū and māhoe.
Tree species will change based on seasonal availability.
Planting restrictions
Because of our commemorative forest approach, there are some restrictions to what can be planted.
Burial of ashes and other remains
To ensure the health and survival of trees planted in the commemorative forest, it will not be possible to inter ashes, other human remains or any other materials.
Mākara and Karori Cemeteries offer a variety of burial and remembrance services. See:
Burials (including natural burials)
Cremations
Ash scattering
Artificial memorials
As this is a natural reforestation area, placing any artificial memorials in the tree pits or around the trees is not permitted.
Growing a commemorative forest
Instead of individual trees in different locations, our approach is to focus on one location at a time. We will allow the area to develop into a flourishing stand of native bush that you and your family can visit and enjoy for years to come.
As well as preserving the memories of those we love, planting trees aids the reforestation and greening of our city spaces and parks, and makes a direct contribution to enhancing biodiversity. The native species that we plant are a crucial part of replenishing the ngahere (forests) of Wellington.
The faster-growing species will grow into a regeneration layer, providing a sheltering environment for other taller, long-lived trees to emerge after several years – and continue growing for hundreds of years.
Apply to plant a commemorative tree
Please apply via the application form below. There is a cost of $80.
Apply online
More information
For any questions or enquiries around the process, please contact Berhampore Nursery.
Email: berhamporenursery@wcc.govt.nz