Tauranga Bridge closed for maintenance
Date: 13 October 2008
People wishing to visit the Tauranga Valley in the Waioeka Gorge Scenic Reserve are advised that the Tauranga Bridge across the Waioeka River will be closed to the public during October.
Department of Conservation Ranger, Dennis Rutter said today that the bridge will be a hive of activity for the next five weeks.
The Tauranga Bridge
"Two of the spans between the deck and crossbeams are being replaced on the old harp suspension bridge as part of routine maintenance. The work is being funded by Environment Bay of Plenty's Environmental Enhancement Fund," Mr Rutter said.
The historic Tauranga Bridge, spanning the Waioeka River, is the only surviving harp suspension bridge left in New Zealand. The bridge is protected by the Historic Places Trust and is of national significance for its engineering design and appearance. From a tower at one end, each suspension cable passes under a different bridge crosspiece, before rising to the tower at the other end. This creates an unusual and attractive 'harp-like' pattern, hence the term harp suspension bridge.
The bridge provides access to the Tauranga Valley, an area that was settled and farmed last century. A loop track up the valley to some of the old farm sites is a popular walk for visitors to the area.
"The bridge is a connection to historic stories of Waioeka and an attraction for modern tourists. Being an old wooden structure it needs regular maintenance to conserve the bridge and provide a safe crossing for users. We appreciate the contributions we have received from the Environmental Enhancement Fund towards conserving this special piece of local history.
"The Tauranga Bridge will re-open on the 8th of November," said Mr Rutter.