Te Reinga Bridge will remain closed to vehicles and pedestrians at least overnight to allow further assessment to take place.

While some assessment work was carried out today (Thursday, Jan 12) more time is needed to ensure there is no additional damage to the temporary design repair of the bridge. Further evaluation, including checks and calculations, will take place tomorrow.

The bridge was closed at 2pm on Tuesday, with the high levels of the Hangaroa/Ruakituri River triggering the closure as a safety precaution.

Wairoa District Council Chief Executive Kitea Tipuna said engineers need to be 100% confident that it is safe to reopen the bridge to vehicles and pedestrians and they need time to be able to gather the necessary information needed to support the decision-making.

Mr Tipuna reiterated his disappointment that the gate locks to prevent access across the bridge had been cut and taken, indicating people have used the bridge.

“Every decision made regarding the Te Reinga Bridge is based on the safety of people. We know closing the bridge is an inconvenience and would not do it unless we had to. I hope people will respect this decision.

“Meanwhile, our team will continue to monitor and assess the situation. Public safety is paramount, and we thank the community for their ongoing patience. Council will update the bridge status via direct messaging, Facebook posts and our website.”

13 January 2023

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