9 September 2025
The rebuild of St Leger Bridge in Tiniroto started today with a karakia and sod turning with residents, mana whenua, contractors and Council staff.
St Leger Bridge is the entrance to Donneraille Park and the first of 5 new bridges to begin construction in the next 12 months.
The project also kicks off a busy construction season for Council’s recovery programme.
Tiniroto community spokesperson Kirsty Playle said it was a long-awaited and much-appreciated moment for the community.
“The rebuild of St Leger or ‘Donneraille’ Bridge, as we know it, brings real relief to those who rely on the route and it’s a big step forward for our region,” she said.
“We’re looking forward to seeing the other bridges rebuilt, more Tairāwhiti communities reconnected and we’re truly thankful to everyone who helped make it happen.”
The new 86m bridge will be higher, stronger and located 100m upstream from the original site. The contract for the build has been awarded to Fulton Hogan.
Community Lifelines Director Tim Barry said the start of the rebuild marks another important moment in the area’s recovery and Council’s rebuild efforts.
“Our rural communities are still living through the effects of Cyclone Gabrielle and none more so than whānau in Tiniroto,” he said.
“I would like to thank the community for their partnership, patience and support throughout this process.
“With Government funding approved less than a year ago, I’m proud of what we’ve done so far and that we’re able to be here today, working together to reconnect communities.
Tiniroto is a focal point for Council’s $245 million recovery programme, which also includes the $45m Tiniroto bypass around the Hangaroa bluffs and multiple dropout repairs.
The St Leger Bridge rebuild will be followed by the rebuilds of Mata (Huiarua) near Tokomaru Bay, Grays Bridge near Te Karaka and Pauariki Bridge in Uawa. Burgess Bridge is still in planning phase and pending funding approval.
More information on our recovery programme
The first sod was turned by (L - R) Richard Niania (Te Hononga o Ngā Awa), Mayor Rehette Stoltz, Richard Webb (Tiniroto community) and Dave Hawea (Te Whānau-a-kai).
The new St Leger bridge will be located 100m upstream and will be higher and stronger to withstand future weather events.
