7 September 2021
Upgrading the single-lane wooden bridge that provides the only road access to the Chatham Islands’ (Rēkohu/Wharekauri) airport was critical to protect an important lifeline route for this remote community. The new bridge opened in January 2020.
Located about 800 kilometres east of the South Island, the Chatham Islands’ economy, and community of just over 600 people, depend on this link to mainland New Zealand.
This project upgraded the single-lane Waikato Bridge to two lanes. The one-lane wooden bridge was replaced with a new bridge made from concrete. The twin-box culvert bridge design means the bridge is better able to withstand storms, improving the resilience of this key route.
The addition of an extra lane also means that people and freight can move more easily to and from the airport and around the island.
This project was jointly funded by Waka Kotahi and the Chatham Islands Council as part of the 2018–21 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP).
The Chatham Islands Council recognises their stewardship/t’chiekitanga/kaitiakitanga role to safeguard the islands and the environment for future generations. This project supported their aim for people and goods to move safely and efficiently while minimising the impact on the environment.
As part of the 2021–24 National Land Transport Programme, an additional $13.3 million will be invested in the Wharekauri | Chatham Islands transport system to help keep communities connected.
