Chris Loughborough — Arboriculture & Urban Forestry consultant
Biography
Chris is a highly experienced arboriculture and urban forestry specialist with over 25 years of experience spanning a variety of roles in arboricultural consultancy and local government, in both New Zealand and the UK. He holds a BSc (Hons) in Forestry & Woodland Management and a Level 6 Diploma in Arboriculture, reflecting a strong academic foundation that supports his practical expertise. He is also a member of both the New Zealand Arboricultural Association and the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). His skill set includes urban forest management, tree health and condition assessments, tree risk assessments, arboricultural report preparation, and the protection of trees on development sites. In addition, Chris is an ISA Certified Tree Risk Assessor and an approved Quantified Tree Risk Assessment (QTRA) practitioner. Driven by a commitment to sustainable urban environments, Chris brings both technical excellence and a deep passion for the protection and enhancement of urban forests.
Education
  • Bsc. (Hons) Forestry & Woodland Management
  • Diploma in Arboriculture (Level 6)
  • International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ)
  • Quantified Tree Risk Assessment (QTRA) Certified
Grounded in Good Practice
  • At The Urban Tree Consultancy, we believe that healthy, well-managed trees are essential to the success and resilience of urban environments. Our philosophy is rooted in balancing the needs of development with the long-term protection and enhancement of the urban forest.

  • We are guided by three core principles:

  • Evidence-Based Practice – Our advice is grounded in internationally recognised arboricultural standards and methodologies, ensuring robust, defensible outcomes.
  • Practical Solutions – We focus on proportionate, cost-effective recommendations that meet legal obligations while avoiding unnecessary loss of trees.
  • Sustainability & Resilience – We see every project as an opportunity to strengthen green infrastructure, enhance canopy cover, and contribute to healthier, more liveable communities.
At The Urban Tree Consultancy, our philosophy helps clients realise their project goals with practical, evidence-based solutions — while enhancing the value of the urban forest for future generations.