Built in the 1930s, the 280m single-lane Brookfields Bridge over the Tutaekuri River suffered major structural damage during Cyclone Gabrielle when 6 of its 23 spans collapsed. These spans were removed from the river channel in April 2024, and the remaining spans demolished during November and December 2025 when bridge repairs were determined non-viable.

Brookfields is an important connector for residents, growers and freight moving between Pakowhai, Taradale and the Port of Napier. Without it, detours have increased travel times and pressure on other routes.

What's happening now?

A feasibility study is underway to assess the network benefits of rebuilding the bridge alongside the Hawke's Bay Expressway four-laning project. The study will inform the wider Hawke's Bay Regional Land Transport Plan and determine the business case, available funding and preferred rebuild option.

Three options are being considered:

  1. A single-lane bridge (like-for-like replacement)
  2. A two-lane bridge
  3. A two-lane bridge with shared cycle and pedestrian path.

The bridge rebuild is essential for reconnecting Napier and Hastings communities, supporting regional resilience, and enabling efficient transport of goods to the Port of Napier.

Brookfields Bridge closed

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Connie Whelan-Mills

Principal Infrastructure Analyst

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