Suspension Bridge Brings Safety, Visitors to Taranaki Maunga

Completion: Suspension Bridge at the Manganui Gorge

TE POU KŌRERO - HŌTOKE 2024

The echoes of karakia during the official opening have now been replaced by the voices of hundreds of visitors crossing the bridge over the Manganui Gorge each week. 

The formal opening, in May, was the first chance to cross one of the most striking features of the Taranaki Crossing project on the Taranaki Maunga. Since then tourists, curious locals and avid-hikers have flocked to the site. 

Construction of the 100-metre suspension bridge began in November last year. And culminated with more than 100 guests including contractors, staff from central and local government agencies, and media celebrating its completion. 

The bridge, within Te Papakura o Taranaki, has been designed to last at least 100 years, and to withstand the sub-alpine winds, weather conditions. Including a one in 250-year Mt Taranaki Avalanche. Supported by two massive masts at either end, the bridge sits 49.5m above the floor of the gorge and features artwork contributed by Ngāti Ruanui. 

Pou at the entrance of the bridge was created by artist Wharehoka Smith.

“This has been a challenging build in an at-times hostile environment – with plenty of reminders of why safety was one of the key drivers for this part of the project,” says DOC’s ‘auraki-Waikato-Taranaki Regional Director Tinaka Mearns. 

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Ruanui Trust Deputy Tumu W’akaae Ngapari Nui said the bridge marked a new era of co-governance for our Maunga. 

“We have worked alongside DOC from design to construction, including the gifting of taonga. That makes this bridge a destination in itself,” he said. 

“The bridge’s stunning visual appearance fits well into the mountain landscape and is a unique part of the cultural interface Ngāti Ruanui brought to this project. 

“The bridge will become a key tourist attraction, along with the experience Ngāti Ruanui has crafted, including our world-renowned Mountain House restaurant and accommodation complex,” said Nui.