The Friends of the Historic Kōpū Bridge held a celebration on October 11, to mark 100 years since the bridge was constructed.
The first pile of the one-lane bridge was driven on October 6, 1926, forming a crucial road link over the Waihou river between Kōpū and the Hauraki Plains.
Although it had since been replaced by the adjacent two-lane traffic bridge, the historic bridge remained an icon in the district and was currently undergoing restoration in the aim of soon being permanently open to foot traffic, organisers said.
The bridge was open to visitors on foot from 10am for the event, and visitors walked, reminisced, and enjoyed a sausage sizzle.
Local historian Russell Skeet gave a talk on the bridge’s construction from the swing-span section in the centre of the bridge.
A plaque was also unveiled in remembrance of Ian Thomas, Gary Blake, and Frances Burton, who were part of the movement to save the bridge from demolition in 2011 and worked to ensure its restoration.
Friends committee member Carolyn McKenzie said the day was very enjoyable, with around 70 people participating in the event.
