Delivering infrastructure that keeps communities connected — now and into the future — takes more than engineering excellence. It takes trust, partnership and a shared commitment to outcomes.
That was the ethos behind the Waitaki Bridges Replacement project, led by NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi and supported by us as a delivery partner. Completed in 2014, this legacy project replaced two 132-year-old single-lane bridges on State Highway 82 (SH82) near Kurow with new, modern two-lane structures — strengthening one of the region’s most critical transport connections.
While the bridges have long since opened to traffic, the project remains a standout example of what’s possible when Early Contractor Involvement (ECI), collaboration and community-centred delivery come together to deliver with certainty.
A critical link: Reimagined for the future
State Highway 82 is more than just a road — it’s a lifeline for the communities of Kurow and the Hakataramea Valley. It offers a vital alternative to State Highway 1 in the event of closures or emergencies, and it connects residents to employment, education and essential services on both sides of the Waitaki River.
The decision to replace the original bridges — built in 1881 — was about safety, resilience, and future-proofing. The new bridges were designed to withstand seismic events, support oversized vehicles and freight and provide dedicated pedestrian and cyclist paths to encourage active travel.
ECI in action: Laying the groundwork for certainty
NZTA’s use of ECI proved pivotal to the project’s success. We were engaged early in the process, working alongside contractors and the client to co-design smart, practical and cost-effective solutions.
This early collaboration enabled:
- Cost savings through optimised material usage and construction methods.
- Reduced risk thanks to proactive identification and mitigation strategies.
- Improved constructability with contractor insights informing the design.
- Greater transparency across pricing and procurement, building trust across the board.
The result? A complex infrastructure upgrade delivered on time and within budget — with quality outcomes that stood the test of time.
Putting people first
The impact of the project was felt far beyond the worksite.
Improved pedestrian and cycling facilities have made the bridges safer for everyone, while realigned approaches and upgraded intersections have improved travel efficiency. Importantly, the new bridges preserved — and strengthened — the longstanding social and economic ties between Kurow and the Hakataramea Valley.
From the outset, stakeholder and community engagement was a central part of the project. Community workshops, regular updates and open days ensured local voices were heard and needs addressed — maintaining support throughout delivery.
Building with sustainability in mind
Even in 2014, the project’s approach to sustainability set a benchmark.
Through the ECI process, the team introduced lightweight materials to reduce seismic loads and craneage requirements, cutting construction emissions and improving safety. Wherever possible, design decisions were made with durability, lifecycle costs and environmental impact front of mind — delivering long-term value for NZTA and the communities they serve.
A bridge to better outcomes
We are proud to have supported NZTA in achieving a vision of safer, more resilient, and more connected infrastructure for the region.
More than a decade on, the bridges continue to carry the people, freight and stories of the Waitaki Valley — a lasting legacy of what strong partnerships, early collaboration and a focus on community outcomes can deliver.
Completed SH82 Waitaki River Bridges where Early Contractor Involvement was used to identify risks and face them head on. Image credit: Roadlab Limited.