The bridge was closed in early 2024 to replace the deck and chipseal the bridge. Since then, there has been some deterioration of the road seal, particularly around the joints between the panels.

The bridge was built for road and rail and opened in 1877 so it’s natural that there has been some ground and structural movement during this time. And it’s this movement that’s the primary cause of seal damage along the deck joints.

Flex in a structure of this age is expected, and the bridge remains safe to use.

Selwyn and Waimakariri councils will be trailing new moveable joints aiming to alleviate the chip loss at the joints.

The trial will initially focus on 5 deck panels and joins. These are planned to be installed during the week of the 24th of March. There will be delays of up to 30 minutes between 9am and 3pm.

The trial will be monitored over winter and spring, with a decision to extend this along the bridge to be made in spring.