There are calls to restore hundreds of oak trees planted in North Otago for soldiers who died in World War I. Only 220 of the original 400 still stand.
The oaks are known as the country's largest war memorial and are unique. Photo: RNZ
About 400 soldiers and a nurse from North Otago towns and farms died in the World War I battlefields of Europe.
The oaks lining the highways are known collectively as New Zealand's largest war memorial. Individually named with a white cross, they are unique in Australasia.
However, almost half of the trees have died or been removed by roading contractors, phone companies and farmers.
Soldiers' descendants say the trees should be restored if possible.
RSA Otago-Southland president John Longman says young people are asking the organisation where their grandfather's tree is.
Mr Longman says restoring all the oaks will be a large and expensive job, but should be considered.
Dedication of North Otago's memorial oaks, 11 September, 1919. Photo: North Otago Museum
