Tree Thinning &
Pruning Services

Your Local Arborist Specialist - Servicing Christchurch & Canterbury

Thinning & Pruning Services Canterbury Region

Trees and shrubs are fantastic things to have in our landscape. They provide many benefits such as shade, structure and street appeal. But over time they can block the view, block the winter sunshine or simply spread into neighbouring properties.

The good news is this doesn’t mean you have to remove the tree or shrub. Thinning and pruning can restore most unruly greenery back to their former glory. Fruit trees, deciduous trees, New Zealand native trees, shrubs or exotics, no matter what the variety, they can all benefit from thinning and pruning.

Our qualified arborists can resolve many problems with our expert pruning. Whether we need to prune out deadwood, thin out trees and shrubs to let in more light, our arborists can do it all. We’ll also attend to any wood that has disease because it’s important to prevent its spread.

Benefits of Expert Tree Thinning & Pruning

Regular maintenance isn’t just about appearance — it’s a vital part of responsible tree care that supports long-term health and stability.

Key Benefits:

  • Improved airflow and light penetration
  • Reduced risk of disease and pests
  • Stronger branch structure
  • Enhanced shape and balance
  • Safer surroundings

Protect your property and promote vigorous, healthy growth with expert tree care from our skilled Canterbury team today.

Our Approach to Thinning & Pruning

Effective pruning requires skill, precision, and a deep understanding of tree biology. Our arborists take the time to assess each tree’s structure, age, and species before deciding where and how to prune. By removing overcrowded or weak branches, we improve strength and airflow, allowing light to reach inner foliage and surrounding plants.

Every cut is made with purpose — to enhance growth, reduce stress, and maintain the natural form of the tree. We never over-prune or remove more than necessary, ensuring your trees remain healthy and resilient for years to come.

Keep your trees thriving and looking their best by scheduling a professional thinning and pruning service with our Canterbury specialists today.

When to Prune Your Trees

Timing is key to proper tree care. Different species and conditions call for pruning at specific times to avoid unnecessary stress or damage.

Best Times to Prune:

  • Late winter for structural shaping
  • Early spring for light maintenance
  • After flowering for ornamentals
  • During dormant seasons for major thinning
  • Immediately for removal of dead or hazardous limbs

Ensure your trees get the right care at the right time — contact our Canterbury arborists for expert seasonal pruning advice and service.

Great guys who went over and above by doing our job outside their normal work area and also completing some extra work on the day
Margaret Gallagher
Ricky and his guys were excellent. Their workmanship was excellent and they left our property clean and tidy. The price was also very reasonable.
Paulina Ryan
I can't rate Chris and team at Elite Trees highly enough. Of the 3 arborist companies I contacted regarding chopping down a large tree on my property, he was the only one who listened to what I wanted done and quoted as such. The job was completed on time and to my expectations.
Regan Bates
The team did everything as requested. The tree trimming was better that anticipated. Excellent job all round. A fair and reasonable price. We will have them return in the future. Highly recommended.
G & M Daniel
Chris was great. Followed my instructions exactly and helped out with a few measurements. Very easy to work with and rapid response time. A very efficient and well done job.
Grace Jones
About Us &

What We Do

Managing director of Elite Trees Chris Latimer has over 15 years of experience, both in forestry and the arboriculture industry.

Chris is originally from Geraldine where there are plenty of native bush nearby and where the hills are covered in pine forests. This is where the love for trees came from and saw Chris start his career within the forestry industry. After 5 years working in the forests of Geraldine, Chris moved his career to Christchurch and entered into the arboriculture industry.

Chris has spent over 10 years working for a residential tree company within Christchurch with the last 4 years managing a team of up to 12 arborists. Through Chris’ vast experience and skills gained as an experienced tree climber Chris has been part of both regional and national climbing competitions with his expertise recognised Chris now participates as a judge for regional competitions.

Chris joined forces with James Emery and together Elite Tree’s was born. James brings a wealth of knowledge and experience as a successful business owner and recognises the potential Elite Tree’s has to be an extraordinary business offering a first class tree service within Christchurch.

Expert Tree Services At A Great Competitive Rate
Reduction & Shaping

Reduction & Shaping

We provide tree topping services.

Hedge Trimming

Hedge Trimming

We service any size hedge.

Thinning & Pruning

Thinning & Pruning

Schedule your regular maintenance.

Tree Removal

Tree Removal

We provide tree removal services.

Tree Reports

Tree Reports

Consultancy & tree health assessments.

Planting

Planting

Selection advice and help with planting.

Protected Trees

Protected Trees

Contact us for an obligation Free quote.

Contact Us

Contact Us

Click below to enquire

Make an Enquiry

Request a Quote

Fill out the form below to get in touch or call us today on
0800 354 838