Frequently Asked Questions

What services do Southern Tree Works offer?

Tree Care:
From routine pruning and hedge work to emergency tree removal, our tree care services are designed to promote the health and longevity of your trees while enhancing the safety and aesthetics of your property.

Silviculture:
As experienced silviculture professionals, we offer a range of forestry management services, including tree planting, spraying, thinning, and regeneration, to help you maintain healthy and sustainable forests.

Gardening:
Whether you need general labouring, planting, or maintenance services, our gardening expertise will transform your outdoor spaces into beautiful and functional spaces that you can enjoy year-round. We also offer a regular lawn mowing service.

What does an arborist do?

Arborists are trained professionals who specialize in the care and management of trees and woody plants. They provide a variety of services aimed at promoting the health, safety, and aesthetics of trees in residential, commercial, and urban environments.

When should a tree be pruned or removed?

Common signs that indicate a tree might need to be pruned or removed include dead branches or signs of disease or decay. In other cases trees may be overhanging neighbouring property or blocking light. Our team of expert arborists can assess your trees and provide professional advice on the best course of action.

What affects the cost of tree removal?

1. The size of the tree

A small tree in an open section of lawn is generally much quicker and simpler to remove than a large mature tree.

Larger trees require more time, equipment and planning. If branches or sections of the trunk need to be lowered carefully rather than simply felled, this can also increase the amount of work involved.

2. Where the tree is located

A tree growing in an open paddock is very different from a tree growing next to a house, garage, fence or other structure.

Trees close to buildings or other obstacles may need to be dismantled in sections and carefully lowered rather than felled in one piece.

3. Access to the property

Good access can make a significant difference to the job.

If equipment and vehicles can get close to the tree, removing and processing the branches and timber can be more straightforward. Restricted access can require additional manual handling and planning.

4. The condition of the tree

Dead, storm-damaged or partially fallen trees can require additional care.

A tree that has split, become unstable or is under tension can behave unpredictably. WorkSafe specifically warns that storm-damaged trees can contain hidden forces and should not be treated like ordinary firewood or routine tree work.

5. What happens to the timber and branches?

Your quote should make clear what happens to the material after the tree is removed.

Depending on the job, branches may be processed and removed, while larger sections of timber may be left on site if requested and practical.

If you want everything removed, let us know when requesting your quote so this can be included.

Does tree removal include stump removal?

Not necessarily.

Removing the above-ground tree does not automatically mean the stump is removed. If you want the stump ground out or removed, ask about this when requesting your quote.

Do you need permission to remove a tree?

Not every tree requires council consent, but you should check before removing a significant tree because rules can apply to protected or specifically identified vegetation and particular sites.

Invercargill City Council provides information about trees and vegetation, including responsibilities for maintaining vegetation around properties and public areas.

If you're unsure whether there could be a planning or consent issue with your tree, check with Invercargill City Council before proceeding.

What is silviculture and how does it relate to your services?

Silviculture plays a crucial role in sustainable forest management. We provide services aimed at promoting the health, growth, and sustainability of trees and forests, ensuring long-term environmental benefits for our clients. These services include tree planting, weed spraying, thinning and pruning.

How can I request a free quote for your services?

Obtaining a free quote from Southern Tree Works is easy! You can contact us through our website by filling out the enquiry form, message us on Facebook, or simply give us a call. We would be happy to discuss your tree care and gardening needs and provide you with a detailed quote.

What sets Southern Tree Works apart from other arborist services?

With nearly 20 years of experience in silviculture, arboriculture, and landscaping, Southern Tree Works stands out for its expertise and dedication to quality service. We have successfully completed a wide range of projects, including hedge training, emergency tree removal, and display tree pruning. Trust us for expert tree care and gardening services in Invercargill and surrounding areas.

Why choose Southern Tree Works for your tree care needs?

When you choose Southern Tree Works, you are choosing a team of fully qualified and insured arborists who are committed to providing exceptional service. Whether you need tree pruning, tree removal, garden maintenance, or silviculture services, we have the expertise to handle it all. Contact us today for professional and reliable tree care solutions.

Are you insured?

Yes, we carry full indemnity insurance giving you piece of mind with any tree work on your property.