Iconic one-lane Waitangi Bridge to close for repairs

Waitangi's iconic one-lane bridge leading to the Treaty Grounds will be closed later this month while wooden decking is replaced.

Work to replace wooden decking on Waitangi's iconic one-lane bridge will see the structure closed from the end of this month.

But it could be the last major work on the bridge as it's hoped the Government will stump up $7 million from the Provincial Growth Fund for a two-lane bridge.

The bridge will be closed to traffic from April 29 and work will continue round the clock until May 3. During this time there will be a diversion in place via Haruru Falls Rd for those wanting to access the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Bay of Islands Yacht Club, Waitangi Golf Club, and a small number of private residences.

The pedestrian footpath on the eastern side of the Waitangi Bridge will remain open for foot traffic during the work.

Repairs to part of the bridge deck were originally undertaken at the beginning of September 2018. However, investigations at the time revealed the deck had deteriorated more significantly than thought and that all running planks would need to be replaced.

That work will now be undertaken and the whole bridge deck will be resealed with asphalt. While the bridge is closed, contractors will also dig out and repair the northern approach to the bridge.

Far North District Council general manager – infrastructure and asset management Andy Finch said staff worked closely with iwi and business representatives to ensure the repairs cause as little disruption as possible.

"We could not afford to delay the work any longer, as it must be undertaken during warm weather. The timing does not clash with Easter or Anzac Day public holidays and also avoids the school holidays. Fortunately, no cruise ships are visiting during at this time,"
Finch said.

This may be the last time the bridge needs similar repairs. The Northland Transportation Alliance recently applied for $7m in funding from the Government's Provincial Growth Fund to build a twin-lane bridge at the site. It is still awaiting a response to the application.

Signs warning of the road closure have been posted at bridge approaches and electronic Variable Message Signs will also be placed at the Haruru Falls Rd intersection and at Paihia's Puketona Rd roundabout.

Detour signs will be erected once work begins.