Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
Activity is set to ramp up at State Highway 35 (SH35) Rotokautuku Bridge, near Ruatoria, with the next phase of cyclone repairs starting soon.
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. That initial work is expected to be finished shortly.
Transport Rebuild East Coast (TREC) and local contractors are carrying out work on the bridge. TREC project manager, Richard Bayley says the next phase of works will build back and strengthen the riverbank and help protect the bridge from future flood damage.
“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,” he says.
“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. Fences and security cameras will be in place.
Tiaki i te Awa I Protecting the Waiapu River during work
Local hapū representative Tui Warmenhoven is working alongside the TREC team on the project.
She says Rauru a Toi hapū kaitiaki are collaborating closely with TREC environmental specialists to ensure river works uphold cultural values, protect taonga species, and preserve the mauri of the awa.
“The bridge and river are both deeply significant to our whānau. This bridge keeps us connected to vital services in Ruatoria, and the river is part of who we are. It’s essential the work here honours the awa and protects it for generations to come.”
A temporary coffer dam will keep the work area dry and safely separated from the river flow. Before work starts the environmental team and kaitiaki check for nesting birds and relocate fish from the work area. Water levels and sediment will be monitored to keep the river healthy during the project.
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