The public will get a once in a lifetime chance to walk or cycle over the Matahorua Bridge this Sunday, just weeks before it opens to traffic as part of the NZ Transport Agency's SH2 Matahorua Gorge Realignment.
Acting state highways manager Gordon Hart says the open day is being hosted in partnership with the Rotary clubs of Wairoa, Napier and Hastings and the Institution of Professional Engineers (IPENZ).
“This open day will be a once in a lifetime chance for the public to walk or cycle over the bridge and take advantage of the picturesque views over the Matahorua Gorge from a unique vantage point.”
“The Matahorua Bridge is the centrepiece of the largest roading project Hawke’s Bay has seen in many years. As part of the Government’s Jobs and Growth economic stimulus package the project has provided employment and investment in the region, and when it opens next month it will provide safer, shorter, and easier journeys for motorists.”
Mr Hart says the open day will be an enjoyable day out for families, with food and drink available to purchase onsite, and buses are being chartered to take people to Wairoa and/or Napier/Hastings and back. Buses are filling fast but places are still available - email matahorua@nzta.govt.nz for buses travelling from Napier-Hastings-Havelock North ($20pp return) or call WW Buses on 06 838 6049 for buses travelling from Wairoa ($10pp return).
A gold coin donation is appreciated and will be collected by Rotary, with all proceeds going to the Rotary Pathways Trusts for walking and cycling initiatives in Hawke’s Bay and Wairoa.
For more information on the Matahorua project or the open day, visit www.nzta.govt.nz/matahorua(external link).
