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A major infrastructure upgrade on the Tongariro River Trail is set to improve access for visitors, with construction of a new suspension bridge beginning April 20.
The new bridge will replace the 70-year-old Major Jones Bridge near the Koura Street entrance in Tūrangi, supporting one of the central features of the popular walking and cycling trail.
Supporting a high-use visitor attraction
The Tongariro River Trail attracts around 50,000 visitors annually, with use spanning walking, cycling and access to fly-fishing areas.
Department of Conservation Taupō operations manager Dave Conley says the replacement bridge will improve usability for a wide range of visitors.
“The new bridge will be about 15cm wider… allowing easier use for cyclists, anglers, walkers, and other recreational users alike,” Dave says.
Partnership approach
The project is being delivered by DOC in partnership with Ngāti Tūrangitukua, Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board and Te Kotahitanga o Ngāti Tūwharetoa.
Ngāti Tūrangitukua Charitable Trust chair Lauren Fletcher says the river remains a significant cultural site.
“As it flows through our hapū we take our roles as tangata tiaki seriously… to ensure the safety of all manuhiri who are in our rohe,” Lauren says.
Managing construction impacts
Construction is scheduled to run through to September 30, with the trail and existing bridge expected to remain largely open, aside from temporary closures for safety.
Visitors are advised to follow on-site instructions, with some disruption, including noise and short closures, expected during the build.
Long-term tourism benefit
Officials say the new bridge will improve safety and resilience, helping future-proof the trail for decades.
The upgrade supports continued access to one of the central North Island’s key nature-based visitor experiences.
