And then there were none

The 58 broadleaf shrubs planted at Queens Gardens by Dunedin man Steve Macknight were removed yesterday morning.

Mr Macknight said he planted the shrubs last month with the intention of screening the area, including the Dunedin Cenotaph, from traffic, but did not have permission from the Dunedin City Council and the RSA. He was later told to remove them.

Mr Macknight said he was hoping to work with the council to find an acceptable location for the plants.

"I’m happy to donate the plants to them if we can find a place that suits both of our aims, mine being it is used as a small hedge that enhances a well-used public space by screening off heavy traffic and wind."

He had previously said the plants had cost him about $3000, and he had not expected to be reimbursed.