Waitakaruru Suspension Bridge and approach boardwalk
Project location
Piako River Walk, Morrinsville
Client name
Matamata Piako District Council
Services provided by Frame Group
Feasibility Studies and Options Assessment
Detailed Design and Engineering
Construction Management
Partners
Walkway Solutions Limited - Construction Contractor
Matamata Piako District Council sought to create a new walking and cycling opportunity for both locals and visitors to enjoy native bush close to the Morrinsville town centre. The new walkway is accessed from Studholme Street, River View Road and Holmwood Park, and includes a river crossing over the Waitakaruru Stream, providing an important urban connection within the wider walkway and cycleway network.
Frame Group undertook the design and engineering inspections of a new 37.5 metre long by 1.2 metre wide suspension bridge spanning the Waitakaruru Stream, together with approximately 22 metres of approach boardwalks. The stream is flood-prone and the site was constrained by tight boundaries and limited available space, resulting in challenging bridge geometry. The suspension bridge was therefore designed with inclined towers to minimise anchorage space requirements while maintaining structural performance and resilience in high flow events. Frame Group also undertook design work and inspections for the approximately 20 metre long retaining wall located adjacent to the No. 1 Bridge underpass on the Waiatoa Line.
