New Zealand allocates $5m for Waikato bridge replacement

The New Zealand Government has allocated $5 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to replace the Piraunui Stream Bridge on State Highway 26 in Waikato. The existing bridge is nearly a century old.

Design and consenting work is expected to begin within six months, with construction projected to start in 2027, pending approvals and property requirements. Transport Minister Chris Bishop stated the investment aims to provide a safer, more resilient connection for road users and freight operators before the deteriorating infrastructure necessitates closures or restrictions.

Regional Development Minister Shane Jones noted that the funding is intended to protect a key transport link and support the economic success of regional New Zealand by strengthening the resilience of the route.