A 54-year-old Tuatapere man has been charged with criminal damage, following the deliberate poisoning of more than 200 trees in a Tuatapere public reserve in December last year (2022).

The trees, planted by the Tuatapere Domain Board more than 20 years ago, were to initially beautify the area.

Long-term it was intended any proceeds from their eventual harvesting would be used to benefit the community.

A nearby stand of macrocarpa on private land was also targeted.

Otautau Sergeant Chris Maguire said the Police investigation, with the assistance of members of the Tuatapere public, led to a search warrant being executed and property relating to the poisoning being discovered.

The offender was subsequently interviewed and made full admissions to the offending, he said.

The man is due to appear in Invercargill District Court on Tuesday, 28 February 2023.