Client: KiwiRail

Status: Completed 2009

The Arahura Bridge project involved the replacement of a 120-year old structure to ensure the preservation of an important transport link for the West Coast.

The historic timber truss combined road/rail bridge was replaced with an improved modern concrete and steel structure which provides separate corridors for a single railway track, two road lanes and a pedestrian cycle way.

The new structure was built in stages around the original bridge. Piles, caps, pedestals and road supporting spans were constructed alongside and underneath the old bridge, during which time road and railway traffic continued to run.

The new 216m long bridge was completed in late 2009 and consists of nine 24m spans. Steel through plate girders were used for the construction of the rail corridor, while shallow pre-tensioned concrete hollow core beams were used for other traffic.

Novare Design was engaged by KiwiRail to carry out:

• Detailed design of the bridge and rail works

• Tender

• Project management

• Contract management and administration

• Limited site supervision on their behalf

The large number of stakeholders involved in the project also required a collaborative mindset that would ensure the requirements of all parties involved were recognised. Novare Design participated in a “partnering” approach that incorporated the interests of NZTA, KiwiRail, local Iwi, Westland District Council, and the West Coast Regional Council. Together all stakeholders were able to formulate a strategy that worked for everyone and resulted in the successful completion of the project in 2009.