A Lost Dream....

The Tauranga Bridge stands as a monument to the commitment of settlers determined to make a living off the land of the Waioeka. They shared a sense of optimism and hope, believing they could 'make a go' of farming this inhospitable place.

Since the late 1890's attempts were made to farm this area with limited success. Depressions, falling prices for sheep, wool, and cattle, and increasing erosion forced many families to abandon the farms.

River crossings were differcult and often treacherous, hence the need for a bridge to link the farms of the Tauranga Valley with the outside world. The original suspension bridge across the Waioeka River was destroyed by flood in 1918, the above bridge was built in 1922.

The bridge is of national significance for its engineering design and appearance. From a tower at one end, each suspension cable passes under a different bridge crosspiece, before rising to the tower at the other end. This creates an unusual and attractive 'harp-like' pattern and is known as a harp suspension bridge. It is one of two remaining harp suspension bridges in New Zealand.

Today the Waioeka Gorge provides opportunities for hunting, tramping, picnics, swimming, canoeing, rafting and fishing along with  views of the Waioeka River and the regeneration of native bush.

I'm travelling along State Highway 2 from Whakatane to Gisborne, via the Waioeka Gorge. Not many stops today so a little short on blips, hope you find this interesting.