Thursday 29 July 2021

The Taipa Bridge


 In 2019 a new modern updated bridge opened in Taipa. It is 107 metres long with 2 lanes for traffic and a 2.5 metre walking and cycle track. The new bridge’s most striking features are the waka tauihu (prow) and taurapa (stern) panels of a seafaring waka adorning each end. These acknowledge Taipā as one of the first landing places in New Zealand of the Polynesian explorer Kupe.

The waka hourua (a traditional double hulled sailing canoe) design and the pou whenua were the result of extensive collaboration between Waka Kotahi and the local hapū representatives of Ngāti Kahu. 

The close relationship with Ngāti Kahu also saw the relocation of a monument commemorating local fallen soldiers from the shop carpark to a more prominent location near the bridge.

This is the old Taipa bridge built in 1899. As the years have gone by this bridge was eventually unable to cope with the growing traffic volumes and and safety requirements of locals and tourists as they visit the local popular fishing spots. 

I actually found this video on youtube of the progress of the new bridge so it'll show you the Taipa area.

Linking up with Skywatch Friday.

15 comments:

Billy Blue Eyes said...

At least they were sympathetic in their design and thoughtfulness towards the memorial

gz said...

A beautiful bridge..wish we had got further than Taupō Bay last time!

Susan Heather said...

Such a difference. It is wonderful

William Kendall said...

A pretty bridge.

Tigger's Mum said...

The old bridge looks so much longer, maybe because its narrow. Is that tge old bridge you csn still see in use ar the end of the video - right besidd the new one? Great new bridge. I love that kind of meaningful design.

Iris Flavia said...

Wow. And looks much safer, too!

Sharon said...

I love seeing that little video. The area is so beautiful.

Yogi♪♪♪ said...

Wow, a new bridge was definitely needed. Glad they incorporated some cultural elements into it.

Spare Parts and Pics said...

That's a huge difference between old and new!

Jim said...

Beautiful.

Einari Sinappi said...

Is the bike and walk lane in left of the bridge? Thank You Very Much for Your public Support to my new blog!! Very Much Appreciated!

Light and Voices said...

Greetings and Salutations! I am glad that a new bridge was built. The old bridge served its purpose for its time. What a difference! Video showed the lovely area. Thanks you for sharing.

PerthDailyPhoto said...

So much thought went into the design of new bridge, fantastic! Enjoyed the link very much Amy ✨

carol l mckenna said...

Gorgeous sky and bridge photo ~ Xo

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NatureFootstep said...

teh new one is probably better :)

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