Almost every single part of the bridge was affected in some way by this extensive undertaking. The structure was dismantled and removed for sandblasting, steelwork remediation and new protective coatings. The full overhaul of old mechanical and electrical parts included installing more than half a kilometre of new cabling and wiring, over one hundred light fittings and more than 60 sensors, as well as a full upgrade to the operating system.
Fully reassembled in early December, the bridge underwent a commissioning period. All systems were fully tested to make sure they’re operating correctly in a controlled environment, before it reopened to the public on Friday 13 December 2024.
While all possible checks and processes are completed as part of commissioning, the true test is once the bridge has reopened. As with any large restoration project such as this, it’s not unusual that operational or technical issues could crop up as the bridge settles back into its normal daily routine.
Specialist crews are on standby, closely monitoring the bridge’s performance since it reopened to ensure that should something not work as expected it can be dealt with quickly as it arises.
The bridge will continue to operate at the reduced hours of 7.30am-11.30pm daily until we are confident any teething issues have been identified and resolved. This means the vast majority of people wanting to use the bridge can do so, but ensures we have time available to rectify any minor concerns that come up. It will return to 24-hour operation once we’re confident any issues have been ironed out.
Our priority is always the safety of all users, from pedestrians to those working on the bridge, so if there is a problem, operation of the bridge will be paused while it is investigated. Temporary electronic signage is in place on both sides of the harbour that will alert pedestrians to the temporary closure of the bridge should this happen, and we will provide updates on our social media.
When the bridge is closed, the spans legally have to remain upright to allow free access to marine traffic, a condition of the bridge’s resource consent.
Alternative means around the Viaduct Harbour include the free red boat ferry service which continues to run between the Maritime Museum and the Viaduct Events Centre from 7am daily.
Eke Panuku appreciates the community’s patience and understanding as we work to ensure the bridge’s functionality and long-term reliability.