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At nearly 90 years old, the iconic Bridge to Nowhere in Whanganui National Park has cemented its reputation with a prestigious Enduring Concrete Award.
Embodying the lasting legacy of a now-abandoned post-World War 1 settlement in Mangapurua and Kaiwhakauaka valleys, today the bridge is a destination in itself.
The Bridge to Nowhere is a heritage icon cared for by the Department of Conservation.
DOC senior ranger heritage and visitors Jim Campbell has watched the bridge grow in popularity.
“When I first saw the Bridge to Nowhere in the 1970s there was grass growing in the middle of it! Now we have thousands of cyclists and trampers visiting every year, as well as side visitors from river trips.
“It’s popular for its uniqueness, surrounded by bush in the middle of nowhere. It’s unexpected, and it delights people.”
The remote heritage structure has required careful upkeep over the years.
“We conduct regular safety inspections and minor maintenance work,” says Jim.
“Then, every seven years, specialist heritage concrete contractors complete larger maintenance in a way appropriate for a bridge of this age.
“Structures like this connect us to our past, we have a responsibility to protect this heritage for future generations.”
Presented by Concrete NZ in partnership with New Zealand Independent Cement, the Enduring Concrete Award recognizes legacy concrete structures more than 40 years old and pays tribute to concrete’s role in shaping New Zealand’s built heritage.
The judging panel noted the bridge’s historical and environmental significance, its enduring service, and the ingenuity of its original construction.
Panel chair Ralf Kessel, head of architecture at Concrete NZ says despite its remote location, the Bridge to Nowhere continues to captivate around 30,000 visitors each year.
“It offers a powerful reminder of the resilience and permanence of concrete – the Bridge to Nowhere is a remarkable example of enduring infrastructure.”
Previous recipients of the Enduring Concrete Award include Wellington’s Beehive, the Grafton Bridge in Auckland, and the Hawera Water Tower in Taranaki.
Jim says while the bridge is remote, it’s surprisingly easy to access.
“Choose your method, cycling, a side trip from paddling on the river, tramping, or a cruisy jet-boat tour,” says Jim.
“Whanganui National Park is green, it’s rugged, it gives you the sense of isolation that’s hard to get these days. Visiting the Bridge to Nowhere connects people to nature and the unique history of the area.”
