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The Department of Conservation has released the first images of a new swing bridge under construction in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, which is set to become the longest footbridge of its type in New Zealand.
The 189-metre bridge is being built across the Hooker River on the upper section of the popular Hooker Valley Track. It will replace an existing swing bridge that was closed in April due to riverbank erosion near the supports.
Construction began in August, with contractors facing challenging weather conditions throughout spring.
Construction supervisor Ash Rogers from Abseil Access says the scale of the bridge and the environment it is being built in have made it one of the most demanding projects he has worked on.
“Spring really threw everything at us. We had heavy snow and extremely strong winds that blew sheds and equipment down steep banks,” Ash says.
“We have our own weather station on site, and an average day can see winds between 80 and 150 kilometres per hour. It’s a very special place to work, but when the wind gets up you’re just hoping for a run of calm, fine days so the team can work safely.”
The team has completed drilling for the main bridge support masts and is now working on wind-anchor drilling and concrete foundation pours. Assembly of the main bridge cables is expected to begin early next year.
Engineer and architect Dan Crocker from DC Structures Studio says designing the bridge has been a rare opportunity.
“It’s been designed with advanced pedestrian vibration and wind dynamics in mind, given the exposed alpine location,” Dan says.
“We wanted a light-touch design that allows visitors to appreciate both the scale of the crossing and the surrounding landscape.”
DOC Aoraki/Mount Cook operations manager Sally Jones says the bridge is expected to become a major attraction once completed.
“The new swing bridge will be a destination in its own right for people who enjoy getting out into nature,” Sally says.
“At this stage, we are aiming to open the bridge towards the end of autumn next year. Weather conditions have put the project slightly behind schedule, but we are hopeful for more settled periods over the coming months.”
The Hooker Valley Track is currently open to a viewing platform overlooking Mueller Lake, past the first suspension bridge. The upper section of the track remains closed while construction is under way.
DOC has installed security cameras and is urging visitors to stay out of the closed area, after some people were seen bypassing barriers to access the work site.
“We’re looking forward to reopening the upper part of the Hooker Valley Track and Hooker Hut next year and marking the completion of the longest swing bridge in New Zealand,” Sally says.
