Bridge inspections underway across Hawke’s Bay state highways

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi | 31 Oct 2025 2:57pm | Hawke’s Bay

Routine inspections of state highway bridges across the region began on Wednesday this week and will be completed in approximately a fortnight.

These inspections help ensure the bridges remain safe and fit-for-purpose. Crews started on SH2 in the Wairoa district, and are working their way south through to Napier and Hastings (SH2 and SH51), before heading to Central Hawke’s Bay (SH2 and SH50) next week. 

Most inspections will be carried out during the day under stop/go traffic management, with minimal delays expected.  

The inspection of the Tukituki River (Waipukurau) Bridge on SH2 in Waipukurau also includes a bridge level survey. The bridge will be closed for short periods between 9am to 3pm on Monday 3 November so the survey equipment can take accurate measurements without vibration or movement from passing vehicles. Drivers can expect up to 15 minute delays. 

Inspection schedule 

Date 

Location 

Bridge name 

Details 

Wednesday 29 October  

Wairoa District 

 

SH2 Tunanui Bridge 

SH2 Rakaipaka Bridge  

SH2 Tahaenui River Bridge 

Day time  

Up to 5 minute delays 

Thursday 30 October  

Wairoa District 

 

SH2 Waikatuku Bridge 

SH2 Awatere No. 3 Bridge 

Day time 

Up to 5 minute delays 

Friday 31 October 

Hastings 

SH2 Waikoau River Bridge  

SH51 Karamu Creek Bridge 

Day time 

Up to 5 minute delays  

Monday 3 November 

Waipukurau 

SH2 Tukituki River (Waipukurau) Bridge 

9am-3pm  

Up to 15 minute delays 

Tuesday 4 November 

Waipawa 

SH2 Waipawa River Bridge 

Day time 

Up to 5 minute delays 

Wednesday 5 November 

Central Hawke’s Bay 

SH2 Maharakeke Stream Bridge 

SH50 Mangamauku Stream Bridge  

SH50 Rathbones Bridge 

Day time 

Up to 5 minute delays