Blessing for trees

Carol Taurua-McCready (left) and University of Otago chaplain the Rev Greg Hughson bless some of the trees which have been relocated as part of the Water of Leith flood protection work at the University of Otago.

A short service was held in front of the university's chemistry building last week.

Mr Hughson said the service was an acknowledgement of the concern and grief changes in the landscape had caused some students.

Students Destynee Poutama and Ms Taurua-McCready both enjoyed sitting under the willow trees on the Leith's west bank, opposite the Registry Building, so were upset when they were cut down recently.

Ms Taurua-McCready said she found other students felt the same so with the help of Mr Hughson had organised a blessing of the smaller trees which had been relocated to a green area in front of the chemistry building.

''I feel at peace,'' she said after the service.