The NZ Transport Agency is monitoring the condition of the Makakomuku no 3 bridge on SH 35 between Tokumaru Bay and Te Puia Springs after detecting settlement on the centre bridge pile following severe rains on Tuesday evening.

NZTA Regional SH Manager Gordon Hart said the bridge remained open and was safe for normal use. As a precaution the NZTA had spoken with local timber operators and the Road Transport Forum to ensure that trucks remained within safe loading capacity until further inspections could be carried out.

Mr Hart said if the bridge was required to be closed for repairs the agency would install a temporary bailey bridge to ensure that SH35 remained open and access to the East Coast was retained.

ENDS