Planning well under way for bridge opening

Planning is well under way for the official opening of Whangarei’s Lower Hatea River Crossing on 27 July.

“Earlier this year we set some ground rules around the day and asked the public for their ideas,” said WDC Infrastructure and Services Manager Simon Weston.

“About 35 ideas came forward, from pipe bands, to brass bands, vintage and classic cars, community groups walking and a flotilla of boats through the gap. We have been thrilled to see so many people getting excited about the bridge opening. It promises to be a memorable day with a few surprises thrown into the mix as well.”

Mr Weston said most requests and offers of help have been agreed to, except those where people were wanting to sponsor or fund raise. We ruled that out because the bridge is owned by the public at large and is already being paid for by the public.

“Two main organisers have come forward from the community, the Lion’s Colin Twyman who will coordinate the land parade, and Whangarei Marine’s Brian Caulton who will coordinate on-water events (email whangarei.marina@xtra.co.nz).

“If you would like to take part formally in either of the parades or help with organising please contact Colin or Brian. We really appreciate their assistance and we know they will help to make it a great day, whatever the weather,” Mr Weston said.

The official opening ceremony will coincide with high-tide and will start at around 10:30am with the bridge being officially opened by Hon Phil Heatley, MP for Whangarei.

“The bridge bascule will be raised up to for the flotilla of waka, boats and yachts to pass underneath.

“Once the flotilla has passed through, the bascule will be closed and the parade will start with vintage and classic cars, brass and pipe bands and community groups and then anyone who wants to walk across can join in at the end of the parade.

“For the rest of the day, until 2 pm, people can wander about the bridge and see it opening and closing from time to time. At 2pm the road will be opened for ordinary use,” Mr Weston said.

ENDS

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