Lower Hatea River Crossing, Whangarei

Award:  Infrastructure Award – Commended

Project:  Lower Hatea River Crossing, Whangarei

Entrant:  Transfield / McConnell Dowell Joint Venture

Owner:  Whangarei District Council

Architect:  Knight Architects Ltd

Consulting Engineer:  Peters & Cheung

Contractor:  Transfield / McConnell Dowell Joint Venture 

Other Firms:  Busck / Allied Concrete

What the judges said

The recently opened 265m long bascule road bridge over the Hatea River in Whangarei already has the appearance of an iconic structure.

The design is modelled on the Maori fish hook - hei matau - representing strength, good luck and safe travel across the river.

Concrete plays an important role in the supporting piers and composite deck.  The design, detailing and construction execution of precast and instiu elements was carried out with great precision and care.

This architecturally-designed bridge fits seamlessly into the environment and it has a physically striking presence, without compromising on functionality and durability.

The judges all agreed that this innovative and unique design warranted special recognition in this category.