Project introduction

We replaced the current single lane bridge across the Clutha River – Mata-Au on SH8 at Beaumont with a modern two-lane structure, just downstream of the existing bridge. This project was completed in 2023.

  • Estimated project cost

    $32 million
  • Project type

    Bridge replacement
  • Project status

    Completed

Project benefits

  • Improves resilience, accessibility and safety on a critical road link between Dunedin and Central Otago.
  • Ensures the safer and more efficient movement of freight to and from Central Otago. As an example, this route is used to transport aviation fuel to Queenstown airport.
  • Contributes to a land transport system for Otago that’s safer and easier for people to use.
  • Ensures safe reliable and resilient access to remote communities and farms, forestry and tourism, all vital to the economic growth and prosperity of the region.
  • Eliminates delays experienced on the current single lane bridge where vehicle flows are managed by traffic signals.
  • Saves money being used to fund an on-going maintenance programme that’s currently in place at the existing single lane bridge.

Key features of the project

  • The new bridge is nearly 190m long, that’s about the length of two rugby fields, feature two traffic lanes, and cater for pedestrians.
  • It sits slightly higher above the river than the existing bridge; with the bridge carriageway a little higher again as the new deck sits on, rather than within, the bridge structure.
  • The Clutha Gold Trail passes below the new highway, with a link across the river via the existing single lane bridge.
  • SH8 continues to pass in front of the local hotel, with Dee St upgraded to form part of the main route between Balclutha and the highway at Beaumont.