Queenstown – Greenscapes
Revitalising Queenstown’s town centre was a must-have for the region. With its current expansion the plan was not only to enhance the visual appeal of the area but also fosters environmental sustainability and a sense of well-being among both residents and visitors. As Queenstown continues to be a major tourist and cultural hub, the integration of trees into the urban landscape presents an opportunity to create green corridors that promote relaxation, connection with nature, and a more liveable, vibrant environment.
In addition to these general benefits, strategically chosen tree species can add seasonal beauty, foster biodiversity, and be a source of civic pride. A well-curated tree planting initiative in Queenstown can bring a variety of textures, colours, and fragrances throughout the year. Just a selection of inspirational trees used in this project as follows…
FAGUS sylvatica ‘Dawyck Gold’ – Columnar English Beech
Offering a magnificent display of golden foliage, particularly during the autumn months, when its leaves turn brilliant yellow, creating a stunning contrast against the deep greens of other trees. The upright, narrow form of this tree makes it an ideal option for urban spaces where space is at a premium. The striking appearance can serve as an anchor for various urban design elements, enhancing the visual quality of the town centre.
- Attractive gold columnar form
- Suitable for formal avenues and entranceways
- Grows to 6 metres
Adding to the diversity of Queenstown’s tree planting would be the…
MALUS trilobata – Columnar Crabapple
Also known as the Lebanese Wild Apple, is a species native to eastern Mediterranean region. In the spring, the tree produces beautiful white flowers that attract pollinators like bees, making it an important plant for local ecosystems. Known for its hardiness, it can withstand cold temperatures, making it suitable for colder climates. It’s often used as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks due to its striking appearance, especially when in bloom.
- Flowering deciduous crabapple
- Attractive small tree
- Grows to 4-5 metres
As well as the…
PHYLLOCLADUS Alpinus - Mountain Toatoa
A lesser known but highly intriguing species. Native to certain parts of New Zealand, this tree offers a unique, delicate form and smaller scale that makes it well-suited for smaller or more intimate spaces. Its soft foliage and compact nature allow it to fit seamlessly into urban environments without overwhelming the area, yet it still makes an impact with its subtle beauty.
- Strongly aromatic
- Suitable for feature or group plantings
- Can grow to 6+ metres
In addition to the immediate benefits to the town centre’s environment and community, the introduction of these trees could stimulate greater engagement with public spaces. Tree-lined streets, plazas, and parks have been shown to increase foot traffic, encourage social interaction, and promote outdoor activities, ultimately benefiting local businesses and the economy. Visitors and residents alike are drawn to environments with abundant greenery, and these trees can help foster a sense of place, identity, and pride in the town. Moreover, by investing in tree planting, Queenstown could position itself as an example of sustainable urban design, balancing growth with the preservation of the natural environment.
In summary, the revitalisation of Queenstown’s town centre offers numerous rewards. The landscape brings visual interest, ecological benefits, and opportunities for enhanced community engagement, making Queenstown an even more attractive and sustainable destination. With its seasonal beauty, ecological contributions, and thoughtful integration into urban design, these trees can truly transform the town centre into a thriving, green heart that reflects Queenstown’s natural splendour.
Check out more on our website about the Queenstown streetscape project:
Easy Big Trees – Queenstown Streetscape
For more in-depth detail, see these further links:
Queenstown Town Centre Street Upgrades | Queenstown Lakes District Council
Queenstown Town Centre Arterial | Queenstown Lakes District Council