Bridge unites ancestors from both sides of the awa
Bad weather did not dampen the spirits ofmore than 90 people who gathered to see the opening of a new bridge that will unite people living on both sides of the Rangitīkei awa.
The opening ceremony was held yesterday, amonth earlier than scheduled, after the Manawatū and Rangitīkei district councils were criticised for keeping the bridge closed despite construction being finished.
The $11 million bridge is on the border of the Manawatū and Rangitīkei boundaries, about 20km south of Taihape.
The ceremony started with unveiling of a pou, created by Maihi Potaka of Ngāti Hauiti, followed by a presentation from iwi representatives.
Potaka said the bridge had been an important physical link representing the symbolic relationship of people living on both sides of the Rangitīkei River. ‘‘As the bridge physically connects the two districts, it is a significant link for our social and economic connection in the area.’’
Mangaweka resident Ruby Harris said she had been waiting for the bridge to finally open.
‘‘I am here with my kids. They now know about the history of their town, thanks to the local iwi representatives who talked about it.’’
Rangitīkei mayor AndyWatson said the voices of the community on both sides of the river had kicked the project into gear.
Deputy mayor Michael Ford said the bridgewould unlock the economic potential in the northern part of the district. ‘‘It will create opportunities for local businesses and relieve cost pressures on farmers once it is open to heavy vehicles.’’
While light vehicles have been using the new bridge since the beginning of May, the bridge will continue to be closed to heavy vehicles, as the last sealing work has yet to be done. Manawatū council infrastructure general manager HamishWaugh said this should not take longer than a couple of weeks.
The one-way bridge also links the Kawhatau Valley with Mangaweka and will be used for high-performance motor vehicles.
The bridge could be turned into two-way, if there were emergencies or traffic diversions in the area.