Scaffolding Christmas tree sparks festive spirit in Petone

A different kind of Christmas tree can these days be seen on the Esplanade in Petone - a 19-metre tall tree made of scaffolding.

Local scaffolding firm Vertex is responsible for the innovative decoration.

Director Scott Johnston said it took nine guys one day to build.

"It's been a tough year here in Wellington, so we thought it was an opportunity to create a bit of good will and cheer around Christmas," Johnston said.

The tree does seem to have sparked joy. On social media people, praised the project and when the tree was being built, people were tooting and waving, Johnston said.

"We even had a lady come in last week and drop of a dozen beers for the boys just as a thank you. That sort of thing is fantastic."

Johnston said it took a lot of pre-planning to make sure they got the engineering of the complex structure right.

At night, the tree is lit up by over 100 LED lights that can change colours.

Zita, a local walking her dog, said she admired everyone making an effort to embrace the festive season.

"It's what people like to see this time of year. They wanna see the light and people getting into the spirit of things."

Another dog-walking local, Rachel, is planning to go out and see the tree at night.

"I think its lovely. I watched them put it up stage by stage."

The tree will be taken down after New Year's.

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