Market Street Revamp takes root

The first tree – Nestegis montana or mountain maire - was planted this week as part of the Market Street Revamp.

Taking pride of place outside Hallensteins, on the corner of Maxwell and Arthur Streets, the milestone planting marked the start of landscaping for Stage 1 of the project.

Blenheim CBD Portfolio Holder Councillor Benjamin Stace was on hand for the occasion.

“It’s fantastic to see the landscaping phase underway and to watch the vision for Market Street start coming to life.

“A huge amount of thought has gone into creating a vibrant, high-quality environment that the whole community can be proud of,” Clr Stace said.

The project's plant selection prioritises native species tailored to the local climate.

Endemic to the Marlborough Sounds and local lowland forests, the evergreen mountain maire is one key feature tree. It grows straight to approximately 10 metres, has deep roots designed to protect footpaths, and offers high frost and drought tolerance.

The new tree species being planted align with Council’s Tree Policy 2024 and include natives such as mountain tōtara, kōwhai, putaputawētā and exotics like magnolias and acer.

See the Market Street Revamp section of this website for more information