Flood damage delays Pekatahi Bridge opening

Photo taken from the Awakeri end of the bridge the day after the rain stopped. Photo/supplied

The opening of the revamped Pekatahi Bridge has been delayed due to damage caused by flooding.

Transport Agency crews were inspecting the one-way bridge between Awakeri and Taneatua, which was closed in February to allow contractors to repair the deteriorating bridge.

The structure of the bridge appeared to be unaffected but the area where the wooden deck panels were being assembled was inundated by record flooding and a portion of the deck was washed away.

Transport Agency Bay of Plenty highway manager Niclas Johansson said workers had only just been able to reach the site and found significant damage.

Flood waters swept away 40 percent of the decking timber that was about to be laid and the temporary scaffolding has been damaged beyond repair.

"The workers are using a crane to remove debris banked up around the bridge and they are also preparing for even more rain expected to hit from tomorrow," Mr Johansson said.

The project was scheduled to finish in early May but the bridge opening would be delayed while new decking was ordered and the replacement work was carried out.

He said the community and businesses should expect to use the bridge for some time.

"We know the extra time the detour added to people's journeys is frustrating but we will do everything we can to get the project back on track and completed as soon as possible."