PLANTING THE HILLS AROUND CITY

Dominion, Volume 31, Issue 42, 13 November 1937, Page 10

PLANTING THE HILLS AROUND CITY

Plea For Flowering Gums ENCOURAGEMENT OF NATIVE BIRD LIFE 'The encouragement of tuis, bellbirds and wild pigeons by the planting of flowering gums and other suitable trees on the hills of Wellington was suggested bv the Rt. Hon. J. G. Coates (Opposition, Kaipara) during the discussion on the Estimates in the House of Representatives yesterday. Mr. Coates said that a nature-lover had proved that by planting ordinary blue gums it was possible to enjoy the presence of tuis and wild pigeons within a few yards of one’s home. Much had been done to clothe the denuded hills of Wellington, but it was questionable whether there were not too many pine trees. Pine trees, after all, were rather hungry-looking things. Mr. J. O’Brien (Government, Westland) : Especially when planted in rows.

Mr. Coates: The colour is the same; there is no change. I don’t think there is anything more ugly. The Minister of Education. Hon. P. Fraser: They are not so much ugly as monotonous.

Mr. Coates said that monotonous was the better description. Evidence of how well the bluegum flourished wars to be found iu the bush at the back of the old Ministerial residence in Tinakori Road. He thought it might be possible for the city council and others who were interested in bird life to plant more flowering shrubs. By that means, in a comparatively few years the people would discover tuis, bellbirds, wild pigeons and other native birds within the very gates of the city. “Wellington’s landscape is undoubtedly very beautiful,” said Mr. Coates, “but it lias one disability. Practically all of the native bush has been destroyed, and these flowering gums are just what the pigeons want.” Mr. Fraser: I think the Beautifying .Society, in conjunction with the city council, is doing a lot in the direction indicated. Mr. Coates said that was good news. The work was deserving of every encouragement.