WAITANGI TRAFFIC BRIDGE

Press, Volume LXXXII, Issue 24985, 20 September 1946, Page 5

WAITANGI TRAFFIC BRIDGE

SPAN SMASHED BY TREE TRUNKS

A span of the Waitangi traffic bridge in South Westland collapsed during the week-end, when temporary piles supporting the superstructure were smashed by huge tree trunks swept down the river after heavy rain. Damage estimated at £lOO was done, but repairs nave been made, and the bridge is again open to traffic. The bfidge has been undergoing extensive repairs for the last few months, the major portion involving the lifting of the level of the structure. To do this it has been necessary to place temporary piles under the .various spans to raise the height of the permanent piers, ft was while the second span on the ftorthern sid£

was elevated on these temporary supports that, the river suddenly flooded, and the heavy debris being carried seaward battered at the piles until two gave way. As a result the span collapsed, falling heavily on to the top of the permanent pier, and one end was left hanging into the river. More than half of 4he bridge has been lifted to a higher level above the rising bed of the- rivSr, but the cpmpletion of the work, which will cost about £2500, will depend on the weather.