Otara Bridge - temporary restrictions
Update: Strength testing of Otara Bridge was completed on Monday 28 and Tuesday 29 September. Rangitīkei District Council and Manawatū District Council are now awaiting a detailed report from the bridge engineers, which will help inform the next steps for the bridge.
August 19, 2026
On Tuesday 18 August 2026, we received reports of structural damage to Otara Bridge, located near Ohingaiti, approximately 3 km east of State Highway One.
The Rangitīkei District Council and Manawatū District Council roading teams have conducted an inspection of the bridge and as a result, we have implemented the following precautionary restrictions:
- a weight limit of 6000 kg gross
- a 10 km/h speed restriction for light vehicles
- only one vehicle to cross the bridge at a time
Motorists are also advised to drive in the centre of the bridge.
Signage is now in place to advise motorists of these restrictions.
Further investigations will be undertaken to determine the cause of the damage, and how best to repair it.
We will have more information as soon as it comes to hand.