Emergency repairs for Awaroa Rd bridge, weight restrictions applied

An emergency load restriction is now in place for Awaroa Road Bridge G09, after a recent inspection revealed serious structural concerns.

The bridge, which crosses the Mangonuiowae River near Hicks Road, is safe to use by passenger and other light vehicles. The maximum gross vehicle mass now allowed to cross the bridge is 25 per cent of Class 1, with a maximum axle load of 2600 kilograms and a speed limit of 30km/h. These restrictions effectively close the bridge to all heavy vehicles, including trucks, tractors, and other large machinery.

Awaroa Road forms part of the Twin Coast Discovery Highway and is an important link for those travelling between Broadwood, Herekino and Ahipara to the north. Far North District Council (FNDC) has prioritised emergency repairs for the bridge, which are expected to be complete by 21 November subject to the weather.

Once these repairs are complete, the council anticipates lifting the restrictions, although some load restrictions may remain.

While the emergency load restrictions are in place, heavy load vehicles should plan alternate routes. Road signs and traffic management will be in place while the work is being carried out and motorists are advised to follow the instructions of read crews.

As well as the emergency weight restrictions at the Awaroa Road bridge, other bridges have new load limits in place, These are listed below.

The council owns and maintains 732 bridges on the local road network. Timber bridges and bridges with weight and/or speed restrictions are inspected annually. All other bridges are inspected on a three-yearly cycle. These inspections identify where maintenance is required, and which bridges need to be replaced.

Find out more about bridge load restrictions by visiting the webpage here.