A hapu of Ngati Pikiao, Ngati Hinerangi, says it wants to set up an advisory body to work with the Rotorua District Council so other sacred sites aren't mistakenly destroyed.
A native tree, Te Pou a Taranui, which stood on the side of State Highway 33 not far from Okere Falls near Rotorua has been cut down by council.
The tree was named after the Ngati Pikiao chief Taranui.
The Rotorua council says it wasn't listed as a heritage or protected site, and was felled because it was a roadside hazard.
A Taranui descendant Piki Thomas says it wasn't registered.
But he says since it was cut down the council has been forthcoming in sharing its plans for such things as road works in the area.
He says now Ngati Hinerangi wants to form an advisory board so when the council make plans the sub-tribe can tell the council of cultural sites.
