Wynyard Crossing Bridge repairs update

The bridge’s steel spans and engine rooms have been removed offsite to nearby Wynyard Wharf, where they’re undergoing protective coating repairs. This approach allows the team to work faster and more efficiently, reducing disruption to the surrounding area and ensuring the highest standards of safety and durability.

“We’re working hard to ensure every element of the bridge is restored to the highest standards", says Monica Paterson, Project Manager at RCP. While it may seem like a long process, every step we take is crucial to delivering a bridge that will be safe, durable, and reliable for years to come.”

Safety hoardings have been installed onsite around Karanga Plaza and Te Wero Island to secure the remaining bridge components. Enclosed structures and wraps are in place to contain dust and debris during the ongoing works.

Once the offsite repairs are complete, the bridge parts will be returned for reinstallation. Each piece will be carefully lifted into position, and the intricate work of rewiring and refitting the mechanical systems will begin. This will be followed by the commissioning and testing of the systems, ensuring the bridge is fully operational.

Since the bridge closure in March 2024, significant progress has been made on the mechanical components. Most parts, including winches and cables, have been replaced or refurbished. As parts for the bridge are no longer manufactured, custom components have been commissioned or imported and are being adapted for installation. These specialised parts will either be fitted soon or prepared for future use.

Additionally, the maintenance team has restocked essential consumables, ensuring a good supply of critical spares locally to avoid delays caused by long lead times.

Early next month, the reinstallation of the engine rooms is expected to commence, followed by the spans. It's important to remember that the bridge being back in place won't mean it's quite ready to re-open to the public. We have to commission and test it first to ensure everything is in working order.