Taramakau road bridge

In keeping with the New Zealand Transport Agency’s initiative for improving safety and efficiency across our roading networks, Novare Design of New Zealand appointed GHD as a project partner to design and deliver the separation of the two transport modes that use the bridge.

The team designed two new bridges - one over the Taramakau River and one over the existing railway line. The existing bridge remains in place, and the railway is able to continue operating. The project also included an off-road pedestrian and cyclist path that links into existing facilities, making it easier and safer to walk and bike around the area. The cycle links also play a part in the growing tourism opportunities developing in the west coast such as the West Coast Wilderness Trail.

This project was a regionally accelerated project which had to be delivered to a tight and politically important timeframe. GHD and Novare worked with the New Zealand Transport Agency, KiwiRail, and other key stakeholders, to achieve the tender date targeted at the commencement of the project.

The completed project improved efficiency, safety and journey experience for all users, while significantly reducing maintenance costs for the existing bridge.