Lightning hits Jellicoe Christmas tree2 min read
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The iconic Jellicoe Christmas tree came to life at the end of November for a month of seasonal lights, however a thunderstorm is possibly to blame for the top lights of the tree going offline just a week later.
A large lightning strike in early December was seen by 10-year-old Harrison Palmer, from the balcony at his school, Onehunga Primary School.
The wet and windy day had kept the students off the playground, and they were watching the thunderstorm roll in from the covered balcony, which has a view of the tree tops at Jellicoe Park. “I heard thunder crashing and we saw lightning hit the tree,” says Harrison. “It seemed to stay there for at least a second-and-a-half, and I could see it smoking a little.”
OCN reporter, Amanda Peart, also noticed the top part of the tree had lost its festive lights for the last few weeks of the season.
However, Auckland Council didn’t receive any reports of damage, including from lightning and encourages everyone to report maintenance issues to them immediately.
“We haven’t received any reports of lightning strikes affecting the tree,” says Marcel Morgan, Auckland Council Area Operations Manager. “If people spot an issue with our facilities, we encourage them to let us know immediately via the Auckland Council ‘Report a Problem’ website or by calling 09 301 0101.”
“It’s been fantastic to see the traditional lights return to the original tree, this project was a direct response to community feedback.
The investment into owning the lights means the Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board no longer rents them, providing greater flexibility and savings moving forward.
The lights may be shining at certain points throughout the year too, with the local board to consider what other events they might be suitable for.
“While the idea of year-round lighting was explored, feedback from the consultation stated keeping them on permanently isn’t the preferred option. The local board will discuss what additional events the lights can be used for, with the outcome confirmed this year,” says Marcel.
