New Makiekie Bridge Opens
The opening of the new Makiekie Bridge marks another milestone in the Manawatū District's recovery from Cyclone Gabrielle, restoring a vital connection for the Pohangina community after more than three years of disruption.
When Cyclone Gabrielle struck in February 2023, both Makiekie Bridge on Pohangina West Road and Churchill Bridge on Churchill Road were destroyed, severing key transport links and creating significant challenges for residents.
Since then, the community has shown remarkable patience and perseverance as plans were developed and construction undertaken to deliver permanent, future-ready replacements.
To maintain access, a temporary Bailey Bridge was installed at Makiekie in April 2023 while work focused on Churchill Bridge. Construction of the new Makiekie Bridge began in October 2025, replacing the temporary structure with a modern 44-metre bridge designed to serve the community for decades to come.
Built with concrete bored pile foundations and a concrete deck, the bridge has also been elevated to improve resilience during major weather events. A key feature of the new design is the placement of the truss structure at road level, allowing easier access for inspections and maintenance while improving the bridge's long-term performance and durability.
Manawatū District Deputy Mayor Hadfield said the opening was about more than restoring a road connection.
"The loss of both bridges had a significant impact on the people who live and work in this community. Today's opening is a celebration of their resilience, patience and determination. While we've rebuilt critical infrastructure, we've also restored a sense of connection and confidence for the future."
The $6.7 million project was made possible through funding support from NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi and Manawatū District Council, and the efforts of numerous contractors and partners.
Council extends its thanks to McIntyre Construction and Bailey Civil, TJS Contractors, Latteys, Emmett's Civil Construction, Eastbridge, Holmes, HES Contractors and WSP for their contribution to the project. Special thanks are also extended to the Cameron family for generously allowing the use of their land for construction access, set-down areas and build sites for both bridge projects.
The completion of the Makiekie and Churchill bridges restores two vital transport links and strengthens the resilience of the district's rural roading network for years to come.
