Arborists specialise in the care of individual trees. They are knowledgeable about the needs of trees and are trained and equipped to provide proper care. Hiring an arborist is a decision that should not be taken lightly. Proper tree care is an investment that can lead to substantial returns. Well-cared-for trees are attractive and can add considerable value to your property. Poorly maintained trees can be a significant liability. Pruning or removing trees, especially large trees, can be dangerous work. Tree work should be done only by those trained and equipped to work safely in trees.

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Services That Arborists Can Provide

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Pruning

 

An arborist can determine the type of pruning necessary to maintain or improve the health, appearance, and safety of trees. Pruning techniques include removing limbs that:

 

• interfere with power lines, telecommunications cables, or other structures

• obstruct roads and footpaths

• are dead, weak, or decayed and pose an unacceptable risk

• are diseased, insect-infested or have been damaged by storms

• will increase light penetration through the canopy upon removal (thinning)

 

Other pruning techniques are used to maintain proper structure in young trees, improve tree shape or form, and reduce the likelihood of future damage during storm events.

 

Tree Removal

 

Although tree removal is a last resort, there are circumstances when it is necessary. An arborist can help decide whether a tree should be removed. Removal is recommended when the tree is:

 

• dead or dying

• considered an unacceptable risk

• causing an obstruction that is impossible to correct through pruning

• crowding and causing harm to other, more desirable trees

• to be replaced by a more suitable specimen located in an area where new construction requires removal

 

Emergency Tree Care

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Storms may cause limbs or entire trees to fall, often landing on other trees, structures, or cars. The weight of storm-damaged trees is great, and they can be dangerous to remove or trim. An arborist can assist in performing the job in a safe manner while reducing further risk of damage to property.

 

Arborist are often prepared for emergency storm events. A list of our approved contractors can be found here; NZ Arb Approved Contractors

 

Planting

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Some arborists plant trees and most can recommend species that are appropriate for a particular location. Thinking about what tree your planting and where can lead to cost savings and a better long-term result for you and the tree.

 

Other Services

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Many arborists also provide a variety of other tree care services,

 

• Plant Health Care or preventive maintenance to keep trees in good health while reducing any insect, disease, or site problems

• fertilisation and soil modification for improved tree health

• Cabling or bracing for added support to branches with weak attachments

• Soil aeration to improve root growth

• Installation of lightning protection systems

• Applications to manage certain insect and disease problems

• Consulting and legal expert services relating to trees

 

Selecting the Right Arborist for the Job

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• Check for membership in these professional organisations - the New Zealand Arboricultural Association (NZ Arb) and the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Such membership demonstrates a willingness on the part of the arborist to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and information.

• Check for ISA arborist certification. ISA Certified Arborists are experienced professionals who have passed an extensive examination covering all aspects of tree care.

• Ask for proof of insurance and then phone the insurance company if you are not satisfied. A reputable arborist carries personal and property damage insurance as well as professional indemnity insurance.

• Check for necessary permits and licenses. Some governmental agencies require contractors to apply for permits and/or to apply for a license before they are able to work.

• Ask for references to find out where the company has done work similar to what you are requesting. Don’t hesitate to check references or visit other work sites where the company or individual has done tree work.

• Get more than one estimate, unless you know and are comfortable with the arborist. You may have to pay for the estimates, and it will take more time, but it will be worth the investment.

• Don’t always accept the low bid. You should examine the credentials and the written specifications of the firms that submitted bids and determine the best combination of price, work to be done, skill, and professionalism to protect your substantial investment. Be wary of individuals who go door-to-door and offer bargains for performing tree work. Most reputable companies are too busy to solicit work in this manner.

• Keep in mind that good arborists will perform only industry- accepted practices. For example, practices such as topping a tree, removing an excessive amount of live wood, using climbing spikes on trees that are not being removed, and removing or disfiguring living trees without just cause are improper practices and violate industry standards.

 

Get it in writing. Most reputable arborists have their clients sign a contract. Be sure to read the contract carefully. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, such as:

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• When will the work be started and completed?

• Who will be responsible for clean-up?

• Is this the total price?

• What are the terms of payment?

• If I would like more to be done, what is your hourly rate?

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Approved Contractor Programme

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NZ Arb operates an Approved Contractor Programme (ACP). The purpose of the Approved Contractor programme is to establish and maintain a high level of public confidence in the arboricultural industry. An Approved Contractor is an arboricultural contracting business that has met, and is required to maintain, a minimum standard of professional knowledge and practical ability and a high level of client service. The below list are the current approved contactors under this scheme;