Bridge write-off after second pile sinks

The Waiharakeke Bridge near Kawhia has well and truly "had it" after a second pile sank, rendering it unusable.

The bridge had been closed for repairs to its timber deck when the first pile sank 1.1m into Kawhia Harbour last Monday. Now a second pile has given way, causing the bridge to be declared a write-off.

The bridge, on Harbour Rd, is on the boundary between the Otorohanga and Waitomo district councils, which share responsibility for it and are now facing a hefty replacement bill.

Otorohanga District Council engineering manager Dave Clibbery delivered the bad news at a council meeting on Tuesday. "We are not looking at doing repairs ... we are now getting to a situation where we are looking at replacement."

A temporary, weight-restricted bridge would probably be used while the original bridge was replaced.

"We're looking at major expenditure for complete replacement and it won't happen quickly," Mr Clibbery said. We're talking seven-figure sums."

Even with Transit funds and the two councils sharing the cost, it would be "sizeable".

Mr Clibbery assured councillors more than one consultant was used, and all reported the bridge could be fixed. The second collapse was "surprising".

Mayor Dale Williams said the matter was not debatable, and replacement would have to go ahead. "The timeline will be as much of an issue as the money. It will be of significant inconvenience to the people in that area and we have to minimise it as best we can."

Mr Clibbery said dire consequences could have resulted had the bridge failed with a vehicle on it.

Mr Williams said the bridge was on a "very strategic tourist and economic route" and both councils felt "very strongly" the link should be maintained. "Basically, it has reached its use-by date.

"It is a harsh environment and it is over 80 years old. We haven't shirked any responsibility in coming to the conclusion it must be replaced."

- © Fairfax NZ News