Nine bridge replacements to get underway

Transport Minister Simeon Brown says the Government welcomes news that NZTA has begun work to replace nine priority bridges across New Zealand.

He says the decision will ensure the state highway network remains resilient, reliable, and efficient for road users.

“Increasing productivity and economic growth is a key priority for the Government, and with many small bridges across the country suffering speed and weight restrictions due to their age and condition, it is essential these bridges are replaced with more modern and resilient structures,” Brown says.

Over the course of the next three years, nine priority bridges will be replaced, including the SH6 Coal Creek Overbridge on the West Coast, the SH82 Elephant Hill Bridge and Waihao North Bridge in Canterbury, and the SH25 Pepe Stream Bridge in the Waikato.

Brown visited the Coromandel last week and says he understands the impact the current Pepe Stream Bridge has on the local community and motorists visiting Tairua.

“At 81-years-old, the single lane bridge is a bottleneck, with severe congestion experienced during holiday periods,” he says. “I’m pleased we’re getting on with work to deliver a modern two-lane replacement.”

Brown says New Zealand’s state highways are critical for freight, tourism, and serve as important lifelines for communities.

“We must maintain, manage, and replace these bridge assets to a standard Kiwis need and expect. Particularly in rural and remote locations where alternative routes are not available,” he says.

“With a strong focus on maintenance, and prioritisation of network connectivity and productivity, NZTA can flatten the wave of bridge replacements needed over the next few decades,” Brown adds.

He says this will allow the Government to target investment where it is needed most, while ensuring road users get where they need to go, quickly and safely.

“I look forward to these first nine priority bridges being replaced over the next three years and the benefits that will come to local communities from modern and more resilient structures,” he says.

Bridges to be replaced

SH82 Elephant Hill Bridge, Canterbury
SH25 Pepe Stream Bridge, Waikato
SH6 Coal Creek Overbridge, West Coast
SH25 Ramarama Stream Bridge, Waikato
SH43 Kururau Stream Water Drive, Whanganui
SH82 Waihao North Bridge, Canterbury
SH3 Mangapepeki No. 2 Culvert, Taranaki
SH36 Hauraki Stream Culvert, Bay of Plenty
SH27 Ohinekaua Stream Bridge, Waikato