In response to a complaint from a neighbour and an investigation by the Dunedin City Council, Francis Whitaker said he was in the process of a major cleanup.
"It’s been a mess. The council doesn’t go through there and keep it tidy and the trees have completely blocked out our view now so we’re just cutting them back down to where they were.
"It’s going to look beautiful by the time we’re finished."
Marie Ballagh, who lives near the reserve, said her neighbour’s actions began a few weeks ago, and she was worried for the health of the reserve and the area in general.
Some of the trees that were cut were on the landowner’s property, but others were technically in the reserve, she said.
"There was a significant-sized pittosporum that was on the school creek, the Ross Creek Dam side of the track, so well away from his property, but possibly blocking his view.
"I assume what he’s doing would breach the district plan."
"I’m really worried it will end up blocking pathways and the reserve."
She was aware of the person responsible.
"I would actually like the adjacent landowner to actually finish cleaning up the area, including removing the sycamores that are along the edge there, and I would like him to give a significant donation into the DCC for the maintenance and stuff in the Ross Creek Reserve, and a commitment to stop doing this activity."
The person would have been aware of the hassle his actions were causing, Ms Ballagh said.
"He has a stunning outlook from his house and that outlook is going to include native bush, which does grow taller, and that’s a fact of life."
A council spokeswoman said they were looking into the matter.
"Following receipt of a complaint, DCC staff have visited the area, where they noticed damage to vegetation. We are considering our next course of action.
"We would remind residents to seek advice and not remove or alter any tree in any reserves. Vandalism, damage to or unauthorised removal of DCC trees is taken seriously."
