An impression of how the new Hikuwai Bridge will look when completed. Construction will begin this month. A Bailey bridge has been operating since June 2023.
An impression of how the new Hikuwai Bridge will look when completed. Construction will begin this month. A Bailey bridge has been operating since June 2023.
Transport Minister Chris Bishop says construction will begin this month on a new Hikuwai Bridge on the East Coast’s SH35.
Cyclone Gabrielle, in February 2023, damaged the original bridge, between Tolaga Bay and Tokomaru Bay, severing an important connection across the Hikuwai River.
Crews worked hard in the months thatfollowed to reinstate access.
A temporary Bailey bridge had been in place since June 2023 while a long-term solution was designed, Bishop said.
“The new bridge will feature a modern, two-lane structure, be approximately 100m in length, and will follow the same alignment as the previous bridge.
“It will provide better flood and earthquake resistance, improved durability, and delivers environmental benefits.
“Once complete, it will provide a more efficient and permanent solution for SH35 road users for generations to come.”
Transport Minister Chris Bishop said the new bridge was "a crucial part of delivering a resilient network for people and freight". Photo / Mark Mitchell
The bridge has been designed to better withstand debris in the river with a wider central span and rounded piers, reducing blockages.
Larger, deeper piles enhance resistance to flooding and erosion effects, while stronger columns increase durability.
Improved bearings will also prevent the bridge deck from lifting during floods or earthquakes.
“Cyclone Gabrielle severed more than a road in this part of the world – whole communities were cut off from Gisborne, and this much-needed bridge is a crucial part of delivering a resilient network for people and freight," Bishop said.
“At a programme cost of around $50 million, the Transport Rebuild East Coast (TREC) Alliance will be working with CLL Service and Solutions, who will lead the construction of the bridge structure, given its expertise in this area.
“Local businesses Parata Construction, Currie Construction, and local branches of Downer and Fulton Hogan will also be working on the project.”
He said early works and site establishment started last month, and cranes would soon be set up on the site.
Piling work is due to begin later this month.
“I look forward to this new bridge being completed as soon as possible,” Bishop said. “The East Coast was hit hard by Cyclone Gabrielle, and restoring modern, resilient networks for people and freight is a priority for the Government.”
