Tairua’s ageing Pepe Stream Bridge is set to receive a makeover, as the government looks to replace nine bridges around the country over the next three years.
The 81-year-old single-lane bridge, located on State Highway 25 in the heart of the coastal town, is a source of congestion during summer and peak periods. Its replacement will have two lanes. Construction is planned to begin in mid-2025 and is expected to be completed by mid-2027.
Also in line to be replaced are the Ramarama Stream Bridge on SH25, and the Ohinekaua Stream Bridge on SH27 in Tahuna.
Transport Minister Simeon Brown released a statement announcing the replacements, after a visit to the Coromandel on July 20.
The work comes as part of a nation-wide project by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.
“Increasing productivity and economic growth is a key priority for the government, and with many small bridges across the country suffering speed and weight restrictions due to their age and condition, it is essential these bridges are replaced with more modern and resilient structures,” Mr Brown said.
“I understand the impact the current Pepe Stream Bridge is having on the local community and motorists that are visiting Tairua. At 81 years old, the single lane bridge is a bottleneck, with severe congestion experienced during holiday periods. I’m pleased we’re getting on with work to deliver a modern two-lane replacement.”
Coromandel MP Scott Simpson said the bridge replacements would improve the resilience of the local roading network.
“The development of these replacement bridges will be a significant boost to our region, particularly the two-way bridge at Pepe Stream,” he said.
“The sight of long lines of vehicles navigating stop-go signs in the [sweltering] summer heat has
become an unfortunate byproduct of our region’s popularity, not to mention the inconvenience that locals encounter on a day-to-day basis.”
“Once [the Pepe Bridge] replacement is operational, it will mean locals can get to where they need to go quickly and safely, and visitors will have more time to experience everything the Coromandel has to offer.”
Thames-Coromandel district mayor Len Salt said the announcement was great news.
“This particular bridge, right in the middle of Tairua, has been a problem for years, so we’re really looking forward to its replacement.”
Tairua-Pāuanui community board chair Warwick Brooks also welcomed the announcement. “The old bridge is no longer fit-for-purpose. Tairua is growing, and to have a one-lane bridge operating at one end of our commercial precinct is neither suitable for our town, and not particularly safe either. I’m really happy to hear about the government’s announcement.”
