Bridges

Bridge Engineers, Design Managers, Constructors and Clients. We are all part of a privileged bridge community who deliver important infrastructure that stands for 100 years or more. Yet, we commonly understate and underestimate the importance of our product. At times the enduring value to community can be forgotten as it competes with immediate pressures of time, finance, and requirements.

Designs for 100+ years; what a legacy they may hold; what a story they should tell. Knowledge, experience, and stories shared across generations.

The award winning Tirohanga Whānui Bridge (panoramic views) opened in February 2019 across SH1 on the North Shore of Auckland. Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency and Watercare Services Limited jointly funded this project. Throughout design and construction, this project took significant positive strides in supporting healthy engagement and the relationship with iwi Ngati Whatua (local people). Several successful outcomes were realized, starting as early in the project as the bridgeís alignment, into bridge features like the Raranga (local Flax weave pattern) handrail and eventually to the bridgeís dawn blessing and name.

The bridge is a great example of architectural design through parametric engineering, structural bridge features, and embracing kōrero (narratives). The 104m long bespoke truss hybrid consists of three spans with organic voids that vary in aperture by responding to the stresses in the structure. Through a cultural lens, the bridge detailing will be discussed. Construction solutions will be introduced, highlighting innovative approaches to the erection methodology that reduced disruption and risk to the community. Our industry is all part of the 100+ design club. We should act on that collectively and be proud of it.