When Cyclone Gabrielle struck in early 2023, it destroyed a 60-metre single-lane suspension bridge across the Mataikona River. For the landowner of a large Wairarapa coastal station, the loss was significant. The bridge was the only direct crossing for the entire width of the river, and without it the southern part of the station could only be reached by a 2.5-hour journey on public roads. A dwelling on the station was effectively cut off from its road frontage, resulting in a long drive.
Working inside the coastal marine area
Replacing the bridge was not straightforward. The site sits inside the coastal marine area at the river mouth, an environment with overlapping protections: significant cultural values, recognised īnanga (whitebait) spawning habitat, and identified indigenous biodiversity values. Customary marine title and protected customary rights also apply to the adjacent coast. Any new structure needed coastal permit consent from Greater Wellington Regional Council.
A design that worked with the river
Derive prepared the coastal permit application and assessment of environmental effects, working alongside the engineering team. The proposal reused the existing bridge abutments, kept construction works out of the wetted channel, raised the bridge deck for better flood resilience, and timed works to avoid effects on īnanga spawning values. Notification was sent to the relevant customary marine groups, alongside local hapū.
Outcome
Consent was granted on a non-notified basis in April 2026, with a 35-year duration. Iwi feedback through the process was supportive, recognising the bridge as the best option for maintaining fish passage and the mauri of the river. Construction is now able to proceed, restoring lifeline access to the station and to a stretch of coast with deep historical significance for the hapū connected to the land.