MANGAWEKA BRIDGE
2nd June 2022. The new bridge has been completed, and the approaches tarsealed. It is now open for all traffic.
The bridge was officially opened on 20th May 2022. The old bridge on the right will be open to walkers and cyclists only.
The bridge was officially opened on 20th May 2022. The old bridge on the right will be open to walkers and cyclists only.
On a wet May day the rain eased long enough for the opening of the new bridge.
A Maori pou, created by designer Maihi Potato was erected on the Rangitikei side of the bridge symbolising the tie between the two districts.
After the ribbon was cut by Manawatū deputy Mayor Michael Ford, Rangitikei Mayor Andy Watson and Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Hauiti chairperson Heather Gifford, the crowd walked from one side to the next just in time before the rain returned.
Fortunately, the remaining speeches were held under cover at Awastone.
A Maori pou, created by designer Maihi Potato was erected on the Rangitikei side of the bridge symbolising the tie between the two districts.
After the ribbon was cut by Manawatū deputy Mayor Michael Ford, Rangitikei Mayor Andy Watson and Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Hauiti chairperson Heather Gifford, the crowd walked from one side to the next just in time before the rain returned.
Fortunately, the remaining speeches were held under cover at Awastone.
Bridge completed, but the approaches were yet to be sealed.
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The Mangaweka Bridge over the Rangitikei River divides the districts of Rangitikei and Manawatu. The access road is just north of Mangaweka, where travellers turn onto Ruahine Road, the start of The Manawatu Scenic Route, continuing east a short distance before arriving at the bridge. There is quite a history behind this historic bridge built in 1904 and the only cantilever road bridge left in New Zealand. It also had the unfortunate status of waiting 114 years before its official opening. This finally took place on the 7th March 2015. Watch the video below about this unique bridge's story. |
Its life as a functional bridge has been under threat. Because of safety concerns, the weight restriction was reduced to 6000 kgs, meaning vehicles any larger than a medium-sized motorhome could no longer cross the bridge. The Rangitikei & Manawatu District Councils have agreed to build a brand new bridge downstream from the existing bridge and as mentioned above, is nearly complete. But what of the old bridge's fate? Mangaweka Heritage enthusiasts have argued it is the only one of its kind left in New Zealand and should be kept as a tourist icon allowing foot traffic & cyclists to enjoy the marvellous river views, papa cliffs and surrounding beauty. After much consultation, including public submissions, Manawatu District Council voted on 22nd August 2019 to keep the bridge. So now the Mangaweka Bridge Trust can start promoting the bridge as a tourist icon. Awastone sits either side of the bridge, which will be the connection between the main accommodation and restaurant situated on the east side of the bridge with the Mangaweka Campground situated on the west side. |
