After any major earthquake such as the one that occurred on Monday, structures on state highways are assessed as quickly as possible by structural engineers. Their assessment has confirmed that all structures along the Wellington motorway have retained their structural integrity.
Structural engineers completed an assessment of the Shell Gully Bridge and piers (the motorway exit to the Terrace), and both were verified as structurally sound.
Some loose material has fallen off the piers and superficial damage around the pier bases will require attention and cleaning up. Maintenance crews are currently clearing the debris.
While parts of the Clifton Terrace car park will soon be re-opened, sections beneath the piers and bridge will remain cordoned for the time being.
The land that the car park sits on is owned by the NZ Transport Agency, and is leased to the Wellington City Council for parking operations.
