Waitangi River bridge closed to heavier vehicles

The Waitangi River bridge on State Highway 10 has been closed to overweight vehicles due to safety concerns.

Waka Kotahi says all overweight vehicle permit holders must use State Highway 1 as the alternative route.

Permit holders may also seek permission from the Far North District Council to detour using local roads. All other vehicles can continue to safely use the bridge at a now lowered temporary speed limit of 50kmh.

Jacqui Hori-Hoult, regional manager Tāmaki Makaurau me Te Tai Tokerau at Waka Kotahi says, the deterioration found during a routine safety inspection of the bridge requires immediate action.

‘‘We understand removing access to the Waitangi River bridge will cause disruption for overweight vehicle permit holders and we apologise in advance for the inconvenience,’’ Hori-Hoult says.

‘‘While further investigation into strengthening works are carried out, a detour will be in place via SH1.

‘‘All those with current overweight vehicle permits will have a variation automatically applied to their permit to use the SH1

We understand removing access to the Waitangi River bridge will cause disruption for overweight vehicle permit holders and we apologise . . . for the inconvenience.

Jacqui Hori-Hoult

detour from today, and we will remain in close communication with our freight partner as things progress.

‘‘Traffic engineers also advise that with a reduced speed limit, other motorists can continue to use the bridge safely. Waka Kotahi has therefore put in place a temporary speed limit of 50kmh from today, which significantly lessens structural stress on the bridge.’’

‘‘Our team will be carrying out further inspections and assessments over the coming days and weeks. The bridge will also be closely monitored until the necessary strengthening works can be carried out. We thank all those who use SH10 Waitangi River bridge in advance for ensuring these important safety measures are followed.’’