Construction of a new bridge on State Highway 27 (SH27) between Tahuna and Patetonga in the Waikato will get underway this month.
The existing SH27 Ohinekaua Stream Bridge is around 80 years old and has reached the end of its serviceable life.
Replacing it will ensure SH27 remains a safe and reliable route for the people, businesses, and freight operators, who depend on it every day,” said Transport Minister, Chris Bishop.
Downer NZ have been contracted to deliver the bridge replacement, with site setup and enabling works beginning from Monday 22 June. The project is expected to cost around $3.26 million and construction is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
“A short diversion and single-lane Bailey bridge will be in place by late July, allowing traffic to continue using SH27 while the new bridge is built. SH27 carries around 3,500 vehicles per day, 21% of the heavy vehicles. By using a temporary bypass and Bailey bridge, this important route can remain open while a new bridge is built,” Mr Bishop said.
“The temporary bridge will be controlled by traffic lights, with a 30km/h speed limit in place. Delays are expected to be short, but road users should allow extra time for their journeys from late July. The temporary bridge will accommodate HPMV 50MAX trucks but will not be suitable for oversized loads.”
The work to repair or upgrade nine priority bridges and culverts was given the green light in July 2024 as part of the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP). Since then, a further five priority locations have been added, and NZTA is progressing design, consenting, and contracting so work can start.
“Fixing the basics of our roading network is a priority for this Government, and with many bridges across the country requiring speed and weight restrictions due to their age and condition, it is essential priority bridges are replaced when funding is available with more modern and resilient structures,” Mr Bishop said.
“Our state highways are critical routes for freight and tourism and serve as important lifelines for communities around New Zealand. We expect our state highway bridges to be well maintained and properly managed, which is why this replacement and maintenance work is so important.
“Replacing the SH27 Ohinekaua Stream Bridge will improve the resilience of the wider Waikato state highway network and keep local communities, freight and emergency services moving. I look forward to work getting underway this month and being completed by the end of the year.”
