Tree…t yourself to fresh

There’s still time to treat yourself to a fresh Christmas tree and support a good cause. Here’s what you need to know:

Coast Youth Community Trust
10am-6pm, daily until December 19. Whangaparāoa Baptist Church carpark, 733 Whangaparāoa Road. Standard trees $55; apartment trees $40; large trees (special order only) $125; tree stands $40; festoon lights – domestic $50 – heavy duty $65. All profits help to provide up to 500 hours of youth work to learners in Whangaparāoa College next year. 

Hato Hone St John Ambulance Hibiscus Coast
10am-5pm weekdays and 9am-4pm weekends, until December 20. Silverdale Ambulance Station car park, 36 Silverdale Street. Standard trees $55. Special orders can be placed on-site, on weekdays, subject to availability; tree stands $40. The funds from these trees go towards supporting the welfare and well-being of the frontline ambulance crews on the Hibiscus Coast

Tips to care for your tree
Location – Find a shady spot for your fresh, new tree. Avoid setting it up in a hot room or in the path of airconditioner flow.
Stand – Choose a stand that holds at least a litre of water, and keep the water topped up at all times. Avoid letting the water level drop below the base of the trunk, as this can cause the cut to seal and stop absorbing water
Watering – It may seem odd but your tree needs regular watering. Make a fresh cut 2.5cm from the bottom of the trunk and place it in the water immediately. 
The first 48 hours are crucial, be careful not to let it dry out.
Refill the stand with clean water daily, as the tree can absorb up to a litre a day.
When the party’s over – book in with a Christmas tree disposal service for January. There are a few operators providing collection on the Coast.