Trees growing near powerlines are a year-round challenge for maintaining a safe and reliable power supply. While storms and windy weather often bring these risks to light, overgrown trees can disrupt power and create safety hazards at any time of the year. At Unison, we’re dedicated to protecting our communities by ensuring the network runs smoothly in every season. We love trees, but we need your help to keep them clear of powerlines and ensure they don’t interfere with your electricity supply.

The Importance of Tree Management Near Power Lines

Trees and vegetation near powerlines account for about 20% of unplanned power outages. When branches or trees come into contact with powerlines, they can disrupt electricity supply, cause safety hazards, and in some cases, increase the risk of fire. Proactive tree management plays a vital role in maintaining a resilient and reliable network for our communities.

As we enter the summer holidays, BBQ season, and a time for DIY projects, now is the ideal time to check your property for potential tree-related hazards.

How You Can Help

Homeowners play a crucial role in maintaining safe distances between trees and power lines and have a legal responsibility for the maintenance of their trees. And the regulations around this have been updated recently. These updates included increasing the minimum allowable safe distances between trees and power lines, so now’s a great time to familiarise yourself with what’s required before it’s too late. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Assess Your Property: Regularly inspect your property for trees or vegetation growing too close to power lines. Keeping a safe distance, preventing any growth coming within at least four metres of a power line can prevent potential dangers.
2. Request Assistance: If you discover trees, hedges, vines etc that are too close to power lines you must use a professional arborist, certified by Unison, to cut or trim your trees that are growing close to Unison’s power lines. Contact your local arborist and they will get in touch with us before working near the lines. 
3. Report Problem Trees: If you see any trees or vegetation close to power lines elsewhere, reach out to us via www.unison.co.nz or call 0800 2 UNISON (0800 2 86476). Early reporting helps address hazards promptly, keeping everyone safe.
4. Choose the Right Trees: If you’re planning to plant new trees, opt for species that are less likely to grow high or wide enough to interfere with power lines. Unison provides guidance on suitable tree species here: Tree Planting Guide
5. Know your responsibilities: As the property owner, you’re responsible for keeping your trees clear of overhead power lines and underground cables. If trees are not maintained near power lines, you could face the costs associated with causing damage or even fines. Contact us to check your responsibilities.  

Working Together for a Safer Community

By taking proactive steps to manage trees near power lines, you contribute to the safety and reliability of our community’s power network. We are here to support you with skilled arborists who are certified to work near power lines, ensuring that any necessary tree trimming is done safely and professionally.

We wish you a safe and enjoyable festive season. Remember, keeping our power lines clear is a shared responsibility that benefits us all. Next time you’re outside at your place, look out for trees that might cause a problem. For more information or to report a problem tree, visit the Unison website: Safety and trees

Together, let’s ensure a safe and bright summer for everyone.

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