A new suspension bridge on the lower Tongariro River was gifted the name Te Tauranga o Waikari at a karakia and naming ceremony on Friday 16 October.
The name gifted by Ngāti Tūrangitukua reflects ngā tapuwae, ngā kōrero tuku iho me te mana o ngā tūpuna (the footsteps, stories and mana of the ancestors of the region). It refers to tūpuna Waikari who anchored nearby, and acknowledges the importance of the area as a tauranga – an anchorage, fishing ground, and crossing place.
The ceremony also celebrated the partnerships which brought the new bridge to life, with mana whenua Ngāti Tūrangitukua, Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board, Te Papa Atawhai the Department of Conservation staff, contractors and community all present.
DOC Ranger Project Lead Charlotte Fletcher says tamariki from local kura made the event special.
"These kids will see this bridge through their lifetimes and they'll remember being there at the start, what a cool memory to have."
With a chilly wind buffeting the river, the new bridge was visibly more stable than the now decommissioned old bridge, a testament to the new structure's careful engineering and construction. Well anchored with around 70 tonnes of concrete, the new bridge is similar in design but a little wider than the old one, allowing easier access for cyclists enjoying the Tongariro River Trail.
Charlotte says 174 people crossed the new bridge at the ceremony.
"I counted! Te Tauranga o Waikari has a load limit of 20 people, and it was my job to ensure we were keeping people safe and not overloading the bridge," says Charlotte.
"The Tongariro River Trail is such a popular destination for people out naturing, and the turnout demonstrates how valuable it is to this community."
"We're incredibly grateful for all the hard work and partnership which have gone into making this happen for Tūrangi and its visitors."
Te Tauranga o Waikari bridge was funded through the International Visitor Levy, where visitors from overseas contribute to caring for New Zealand's natural environment and visitor experiences.
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