Client: KiwiRail

Contractor: United Civil, Eastbridge

Status: Completed Sepetember 2023

On February 14, 2023, Cyclone Gabrielle caused widespread damage and flooding, especially in the Hawkes Bay Region. Bridge 217, which crosses the Tutaekiri River on the Palmerston North – Gisborne Line was severely damaged resulting in the collapse of 5 spans and 3 piers. The rail line serves as the sole connection between Hastings and Napier.

Novare Design worked with KiwiRail to develop a fast reinstatement method to enable the line to re-open as soon as possible. KiwiRail’s stock of existing spans was used along with driven steel piles to reduce the constuction timeframe.

The bridge was successfully opened in September 2023.