Work starts next Monday at cyclone-damaged Rotokautuku Bridge near Ruatōria

The Rotokautuku Bridge near Ruatōria on SH35. Photo / Supplied

Activity is set to ramp up at State Highway 35 at the Rotokautuku Bridge near Ruatōria as the next phase of cyclone repairs gets under way next week.

The bridge, over the Waiapu River, is a vital link for whānau, workers, communities and freight across the East Coast.

Cyclone Gabrielle caused serious flooding and erosion beneath the bridge, damaging the riverbank and parts of the structure.

“The bridge remains structurally sound and has already undergone targeted repairs to its bearings and cross bracing,” said Transport Rebuild East Coast (Trec) project manager Richard Bayley.

“That initial work is expected to be finished shortly.”

Trec and local contractors have been carrying out work on the bridge.

“The next phase of works will build back and strengthen the riverbank and help protect the bridge from future flood damage,” Bayley said.

“Crews will stabilise and build back the riverbank and repair and refill the sheet pile groynes [steel structures] that guide the river and hold the bank in place.

“We’ll also install several 4-tonne rock bags and around 200 locally made dolosse to absorb the river’s energy and protect the bridge foundations from erosion.”

A blessing has been held onsite ahead of enabling work starting next Monday.

“Construction is expected to finish in April 2026, weather permitting.”

Most of the work will take place beneath the bridge, out of sight.

“Traffic impacts will be minor, but river access in this area will be restricted while work is underway,” Bayley said.

“Fences and security cameras will be in place.”