Early this morning, contractors, Nelson City Council officers, members from Waahi Taakaro Golf Club, Councillors Trudie Brand and Matty Anderson (from the Recovery Taskforce) and Nelson Mayor Nick Smith gathered to cut the ribbon and officially open the new bridge.

This key piece of infrastructure is a climate-resilient link across the Maitai River at the golf course, linking people to cycling and walking tracks throughout the valley.

“The bridge has been a sizeable investment from Nelson City Council,” says Club Manager Peter Watson.

“We believe it will lead to higher usage of both the golf course and the network of biking and walking tracks criss-crossing this lovely valley and its surrounds, which you all know is a recreational jewel.”

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith said the opening of the new $1.5 million bridge was another milestone in the recovery work from the August 2022 storm.

“Our first priority was essential infrastructure such as our main water pipes and roads, and we are now moving on to the replacement of our recreational assets. This new bridge is also consistent with our approach of building back better. It’s better sited on a straight section of the river, making it less vulnerable to scouring. Its larger span and height means it is able to withstand a larger flood event.

“I’d like to thank the golf club, cyclists and walkers for their patience while having this new bridge constructed.”