Pepe Stream Bridge in Tairua was built in 1942 and needs to be replaced in the near future. A project to replace the bridge is underway.
The business case to explore replacement options has now been completed and approved.
This business case identifies the need for the current Pepe Stream Bridge and parallel footbridge to be replaced with a two-lane bridge with an attached walking and wheeling pathway (option one as presented during our community engagement session).
We now move into the next phase of project development, which is called 'pre-implementation'. Funding for this phase has been approved and includes detailed design, consenting and property investigation.
The project team will continue to work with Iwi, Thames Coromandel District Council and the Tairua community throughout this process, particularly as we look ahead to impacts of construction.
Funding for construction has not yet been confirmed however completing pre-implementation ensures we are well placed to seek funding for construction in the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme NLTP.
Yes. We have an active bridge maintenance, strengthening and replacement programme which gives us a good picture of the state of all bridges. At all times, safety is our number one priority and we carry out regular inspections to ensure that all state highway bridges in New Zealand remain safe at all times.
