The gateway to Opotiki has been restored to its former glory, with the cleaning and painting of Waioeka Bridge now complete.

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is pleased to announce the scaffolding surrounding the iconic 92-year-old bridge has come down, and the refurbishment is finished.

Bay of Plenty Transport Systems Manager, Rob Campbell, says it is fantastic to see the Waioeka Bridge cleaned, painted and looking great in time for summer.

'We know that this was a significant and long-awaited project for the community, and we are thrilled to have been able to deliver this for them.

'The bridge is looking almost brand new and will make a real difference to Opotiki's gateway.

'We hope the community and those visiting the area will really enjoy the finished product.”

Cleaning, treating and painting the large and challenging structure presented a complicated task for the Transport Agency and its contractors.

A lot of time was spent finding a method that would allow the bridge to be cleaned to a high standard, while ensuring the preservation of the surrounding environment.

Rob says despite these challenges, the project has been a huge success.

Higgins Project Manager Roger Greaves says protecting the waterway beneath the bridge was a top priority.

'We made sure there was a thorough environmental management plan in place to ensure no contaminants entered the Waioeka river or the stormwater system which feeds into it.”

Roger says contractors were also able to identify and complete several concrete repairs on both sides of the bridge during the process.

With the cleaning now finished, the Transport Agency is investigating methods to refurbish the historical plaque on the inside of the bridge.

Plan ahead for a safe, enjoyable journey this summer. Keep up to date with:

• Traffic updates: nzta.govt.nz/traffic
• Facebook: facebook.com/NZTAWaikatoBoP
• Twitter: twitter.com/NZTAwaibop
• Journey planner: journeys.nzta.govt.nz

Phone: 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)