Recent inspections of the 93-year-old bridge, located near the Alfredton Road/Route 52 intersection just past Alfredton School, identified cracking in key structural areas, prompting further testing to better understand its condition. While this work was underway, the bridge remained open with temporary restrictions in place to reduce loading and manage safety risks.

Engineers have now confirmed that continued vehicle use is likely to accelerate deterioration of the structure.

As a result, Council has made the decision to close the bridge to all vehicles, effective immediately.

Pedestrian access remains open at this time, with engineers confident this can be safely maintained to provide minimum basic access to the village and school.

Council is working to have signage installed as soon as possible, along with concrete barriers to enforce the closure.

Council acknowledges the importance of the Alfredton Road Bridge for community access, emergency services, and freight movements, and emphasises that this decision has not been made lightly. The closure follows careful analysis and confirmed engineering advice, and is necessary to ensure public safety and preserve pedestrian access.

Vehicle users are required to use the alternative route between Alfredton and Eketāhuna via Pa Valley Road, Mangaone Valley Road, and Alfredton Road, which will add approximately 10 kilometres to the journey.

The Tararua Alliance is continuing to progress further investigations at pace, with the aim of identifying both short-term management options and longer-term solutions for the bridge.

Any changes to access will be communicated as soon as new information becomes available.

Public safety remains Council’s highest priority, and the community is thanked for its understanding and cooperation.