“It signals the beginning of major bridge construction activity that will deliver a safer, stronger and more reliable connection for years to come.
“But it doesn’t come without its complexities.”
Bayley said it was common for the East Coast soils to be soft and highly erodible, which presented challenges.
“Our crews may need to drill through layers of silt, river gravel or even tree logs to reach solid ground.
“Accuracy is critical down to millimetres and we’re using specialised machinery and technology to achieve it.”
Bayley said once piling was complete, the bridge would rise quickly, with crews moving on to pile caps, columns, beams and finally the deck, he said.
“Sixteen pile casings, each weighing upwards of 13,000kg and measuring up to 12m long and 1.8m across, will act as protective sleeves for the eight bridge columns, ensuring alignment and stability.
“Some casings will be welded together on-site to reach depths of 50-60m, deeper than any other bridge on the East Coast.”
The piles will be installed using a rotary drilling method, where a continuously rotating drill cuts through the ground.
“Steel pile casings will then be inserted to stabilise the soil.
“A reinforcement cage is then lowered into place before concrete is poured around the casing, with the below-ground casing left as a permanent part of the structure.”
Anne McGuire, of local iwi Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti and Ngāti Ira, said the milestone carried deep meaning.
“Seeing the bridge piles going in is more than just progress on a construction site; it represents a strong foundation for the future of our community.
“With iwi and Trec working side by side, there is real momentum now.
“We share a strong commitment to this project and look forward to the benefits this connection will bring to the East Coast.”
The new two-lane bridge will span approximately 100m and sit on deep piles designed to better withstand flooding, earthquake activity and debris build-up.
Completion is expected by late 2026, weather and conditions permitting.
