At the moment, there are six ashes plots and nine burial plots available. Having reached close to capacity, the cemetery will need new areas to be developed to cater for future burials.
The Maniototo Community Board approved a proposed plan for expansion of the cemetery in mid-February this year.
The Central Otago District Council plans to remove over-mature pine trees from the unused sections of the cemetery to the right of Cemetery Rd.
In addition, the remaining shelter trees around the cemetery itself will be removed, as some are starting to fall in strong winds.
The council has been granted a heritage authority from Heritage New Zealand to undertake tree removal to ensure heritage-recognised items are protected.
A council spokesperson said some ornamental conifer trees will remain. Replanting will take place as part of the cemetery development over the next few years.
The work has begun, but operations will cease during any funeral service.
The Central Otago District Council’s Naseby Cemetery strategy will be debated later today.
— APL
