Yes Kelli, they're the ones, but they extend ALL the way to the docks and bridges before entering Kowloon and HK Island. Quite impressive.
Yeah, it definitely looks like a deliberate planting scheme. Those hillsides seem to only support shrubby natives, I think mainly due to the shallow soil profile and exposure. Didnt notice any erosion. I think the erosion issues would be minimised by the fact that the hillsides seem naturally well buttressed by rock fragmentation.
I've seen them all over southern europe, california etc, but HK spun me. Next person to go must have a look. Gosh, I got a bit sentimental seeing them all there... Look at our little aussie babies in a strange land...