Iconic One Tree Hill remains barren

WAITING GAME: How much longer will Maungakiekie be without its landmark tree?

Plans to replace the pine on One Tree Hill are again in doubt after a Waitangi Tribunal report criticised the Crown's handling of Ngati Whatua's treaty claims.
The 125-year-old pine was cut down in 2000 after chainsaw attacks by protesters in 1994 and 1999 made it unsafe.
Auckland mayor Dick Hubbard said last year that a new tree would be planted when Ngati Whatua o Orakei gave the go-ahead.
Iwi spokesman Ngarimu Blair says a replacement tree will not be considered until a settlement is made.
An agreement in principal was signed by the Crown and Ngati Whatua in June last year with details to be worked out over the next few years.
But a report from the Waitangi Tribunal last week criticised the process, saying it was unfair to claimants from other tribal groups.
Ngati Whatua o Orakei Trust Board chairman Grant Hawke says all tribal groups have the right to advance their interests.
"My concern, however, is that if this report was to be taken at face value by the Crown, it would mean that many Maori in negotiation would find themselves seriously prejudiced in respect of getting to final conclusion."
One of the aspects of the agreement is giving the iwi stewardship of three Auckland volcanoes, Maungakiekie-One Tree Hill, Maungawhau-Mt Eden and Puketapapa-Mt Roskill.
The Auckland City Council and Ngati Whatua have agreed to jointly manage these sites.
A new conservation and management plan for Maungawhau-Mt Eden won't be affected by a delay in settlement, Mr Blair says.
"We have been working closing with the council on the conservation and management plan, and plan to continue that strong relationship."
A council spokesperson says it does not have a position on the latest development until the tribunal's report is considered by the Crown and Ngati Whatua.
"Auckland City Council said last year that it supported the agreement in principle and until we hear from the Crown and Ngati Whatua o Orakei that remains the case."

By AROHA AWARAU - Central Leader Wednesday, 27 June 2007