Otara Suspension Bridge (Ohingaiti) Damaged
February 09, 2023
Updated Wednesday 9 February at 10:30am
An engineering consultant was immediately engaged to inspect the bridge and
initial investigations determined that a compression failure had occurred to a
main structural component of the bridge. As a result, the
precautionary measure of reducing the allowable weight crossing the bridge to
6000kg gross was made and the speed limit has also been reduced to 10km/hr.
Various industry organisations, including the Road Transport Association and
some local transport companies were contacted and advised of the restrictions
to Otara Bridge.
Further investigations were undertaken on Monday, including utilisation of a
drone to inspect the underside of the bridge. and following that the
restrictions will remain in place. A structural survey and non-destructive
material testing will also be undertaken in the coming weeks. We anticipate
that it will take approximately six months to complete the investigation,
design and carry out the repair of the bridge. This timeframe is subject to the
availability of specialist contractors.
Variable Message Signage (VMS) boards were installed on SH1 on Monday, advising
of the reduction of weight limits on Otara Bridge. Signage was also
installed on Otara Road advising of the reduction of weight and
speed. These signs were strategically placed to allow for traffic to
turn around prior to the bridge.
We will be installing cameras and traffic calming devices on the
bridge. Camera footage will be monitored for compliance and any
breaches will be passed on to NZ Police Commercial Inspection Unit (BCIU).
The bridge was strengthened in 2018 to accommodate General Access Vehicles
(Class One), allowing truck and trailer units up to 46,000kg (46T) access
between Manawatū District and Rangitīkei District.
High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMV), 50 Max and overweight vehicles are not
permitted to use Otara Bridge.
The results of the investigations will identify the severity of the damage and
will help determine the length of time the restrictions will remain in
place. It will also provide us a basis for the repairs required and
the likely cost.
Friday 27 January 2023
Otara Suspension bridge (crossing the Rangitīkei River adjacent to Ohingaiti) has been damaged. A weight restriction of 6,000kg gross is in place until further notice.
The bridge will be reassessed on Monday 30 January.
For enquires please contact our Roading team on 0800 422 522.