Media Release

19 March 2009

Manukau landmark connects with Earth Hour

Manukau’s newest landmark, the Ormiston Road Bridge, will have its lights switched off for Earth Hour.

Manukau mayor Len Brown says switching the bridge’s lights off is a practical gesture of the city’s support for Earth Hour.
“Events like Earth Hour help raise awareness about climate change issues.  Switching off your lights is such an easy idea and I want to encourage the community to take the simple step of turning off their lights for one hour,” says Mr Brown. 

Earth Hour asks people, businesses and governments to turn out their lights for one hour on Saturday, 28 March, 2009 at 8.30pm as a symbolic gesture to show their support for action that tackles climate change.

“We’re also switching off non-essential lights at council buildings including the iconic Civic Centre building and Kotuku House,” Mr Brown says.

People will still be able to travel across the bridge safely.  Street lights around the city will remain on.  The council is also encouraging restaurants to turn out their lights and host candle-lit dinners.

The Ormiston Road bridge is New Zealand’s first cable-stayed traffic bridge. It is 27 metres wide with four traffic lanes, two cycle lanes and footpaths on both sides. The bridge deck is supported on two 70m long box girder beams suspended from concrete pylons 46 metres high.

The council wants to hear your plans for Earth Hour.  Send an email to communications@manukau.govt.nz

ENDS