Watch out for bridge work in Gorge

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

WAKA Kotahi NZ Transport Agency advises motorists that bridge-strengthening work on State Highway 2 through the Waioeka Gorge will be taking place from early January.

Omaukora Bridge, Gibson's Bridge, Sandys Bridge and Owhiritoa Stream Bridge will all be strengthened as part of the SH2 Waioeka Gorge High Productivity Motor Vehicle bridge strengthening project.

Omoko Bridge and Aro Aro Bridge were strengthened in 2021 and 2019/20 respectively.

“It is not expected that this work will require any road closures, however, motorists are advised to be aware and take extra care while the work is under way.” an NZTA spokeswoman said.

“There will be some periods during construction when overweight vehicles with a ‘crawl central' crossing restriction will not be able to travel over the bridges.”

Waka Kotahi has notified freight companies and advised when they can expect to be affected by it.

“In the event of bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances, including impacts from ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, some bridge strengthening work may be postponed until next summer 2022/2023.”