Bridge into Te Paerahi Beach (Pōrangahau) restricted to light vehicles

9 February 2024

We do not want to have to put further limitations in place! 

Please follow these rules when crossing the bridge 

Light vehicles only (under 3,500kg)

One vehicle at a time

30km speed limit

No motorhomes, caravans, boats or horse floats

No heavy vehicles

Please do not move the concrete barriers

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26 January 2024

If you’re heading out to Te Paerahi Beach (Pōrangahau) this weekend, please remember we have a 3.5-tonne weight restriction – this means one vehicle at a time on the bridge - and 30km speed limit in place on the bridge that takes you to the beach – ‘Makaramu Bridge’. We are aware that some people are ignoring the restrictions and are very concerned that this will compromise the structural integrity of the bridge further and ultimately the safety of the community using it!

We expect to be in a position to provide you with a further update and clearer guidance on how long these restrictions will be in place in the next week as we determine the short and long-term design solutions.

The engineer’s inspection following yesterday’s earthquakes showed no further damage.

Please help us get this bridge back up and running to heavy vehicles as soon as possible by sticking to these temporary restrictions. Thank you for your support and patience.

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24 January 2024

Central Hawke’s Bay District Council is introducing a 3.5-tonne weight restriction, effective immediately for ‘Makaramu’ Bridge - the bridge connecting to Te Paerahi Beach (Pōrangahau).

Following today’s inspection, engineers have found structural deterioration on the bridge beam at one of the bridge joints, which makes it unsafe for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes to use.

Chief Executive Doug Tate says the damage was identified as part of quarterly routine inspections that were put in place in 2021 after a different fault on the bridge was identified, which was repaired in December. The last inspection was in October 2023 and no faults were identified at this time. The cause of this new damage is not yet known.

“We understand that this is inconvenient, particularly at this time of year," says Mr Tate. "However, the safety of our community and those visiting our region is our number one priority. Heavy traffic could cause further damage so to ensure the structural integrity of the bridge we need to restrict access to light vehicles now until further notice.”

Mr Tate said Council was investigating alternative routes and a fix for the bridge and will keep the community informed over the coming days.

People with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact Council on 06 857 8060 (24/7).

Council thanks the community for their patience and support as it works to find a solution while ensuring public safety.

15 February 2024

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