Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency maintains New Zealand's civil emergency bridging stock – Bailey bridges. The Bailey bridge ‘kit set’ systems are ideal for use in emergency situations (such as when bridges collapse or are washed out) and as temporary structures for planned events such as roading projects and movie shoots.
They can be installed relatively quickly — anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on a range of factors. They provide an important temporary connection while the damaged bridge is repaired or rebuilt.
Developed by the British during the Second World War, Bailey bridges remain a cost-effective system, being versatile and relatively quick and easy to build and dismantle. With a basic component of a 3-metre-long truss panel, they can be configured to provide much longer spans and cater for a wide range of loads.
The Bailey bridge ‘kit set’ systems are ideal for use in emergency situations (such as when bridges collapse or are washed out) and as temporary structures for planned events such as roading projects.
We offer a complete Bailey bridge design, build, maintenance and transport service for contractors, roading agencies and private contractors.
Contact us for more information about the Bailey bridge service and charges.
If you need the service urgently, please contact Nigel Lloyd on 021 729 341.
Bailey bridges have been used around the world for the past 80 years for uses such as:
Bailey bridge service: before.
Bailey bridge service: after.
A standard bridge (30-metres long, single span) can be assembled within a week. Longer-span bridges may take longer owing to the need to build piers to support them.
We have extensive experience in Bailey bridge design, construction, maintenance, dismantling and transportation. This means we can offer a prompt, efficient service at short notice – especially in emergencies - and provide a wide range of Bailey bridge options.
All hirers are required to pay for Bailey bridge transport, construction and dismantling, monthly hire and inspections. The service is run on a not-for-profit basis, with hire charges used to pay for the components' storage and maintenance. Local authorities needing to use Bailey bridges on public roads in emergencies can apply to us for financial help.
We operate a standard agreement with all hirers.
Read the Bailey bridge hire agreement [PDF, 276 KB]
View the Bailey bridge video gallery
Bailey bridges during the 2023 cyclone recovery
Contact us for more information about the Bailey bridge service and charges.
Call Nigel Lloyd at Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency on 021 729 341. If Nigel is not available, please call:
