Bid to save historic suspension bridge
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Feedback is being sought on options to save an historic suspension bridge near Oxford.
The Waimakariri District Council is consulting on the repair of the Wolffs Road suspension bridge at West Eyreton, which has fallen into a state of disrepair and is no longer safe for public use.
The bridge was built around 1948 for pedestrian access across the Eyre River. It has a category 2 rating with Heritage New Zealand.
The Cust and Districts Historical Records Society made a submission to the council’s 2021-31 long-term plan, which led to a site inspection and a bridge refurbishment report being prepared.
The council’s preferred option was to remove the timber superstructure, approach ramps and suspension cables, and clear vegetation.
This would leave the heritage fabric of the bridge, including the substructure and cable anchors to be refurbished, a council spokesperson said.
The cost of disestablishing the superstructure, was estimated in 2021, to cost $195,000, with ongoing maintenance costs of up to $2000 a year.
Any funding for the project would need to be sought as part of next year’s 2024-34 long-term plan or from external funding sources.
Feedback closes on Monday, April 17, at letstalk.waimakariri.govt.nz/
A report will be presented to the Oxford-Ohoka Community Board to consider making a submission to the council.
Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?
The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.
Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.
We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?
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9.3% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
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43.5% I want to be able to choose.
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47.2% Against. I want to deal with people.
Poll: Would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? 🌿🐦
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Along the trail you’ll find The Fantail Shop showcasing small artworks by local artisans. Even better, every purchase supports the Fantail Trust, helping protect and restore biodiversity on the north bank of the gorge.
So we’re curious: would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? (And for local biodiversity, of course 🌿)
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32.4% Yes!
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67.6% No thank you.
Musicians Wanted
‘Rangiora Bells’ is seeking musicians to join the handbell choir. We are a friendly group of handbell ringers who enjoy making music and entertaining at community groups.
If you would like to come and have a go at ringing handbells, please come along to one of our practice sessions. No commitment necessary if you decide that this is not for you.
An ability to read basic music notation preferred.
Practice days – Thursdays 1pm – 2.30pm
(beginning 19th February 2026)
In the lounge at Trinity Methodist Church
176 King Street
Rangiora
Clare Dolheguy
Phone 027 583 7504
claredoll6@gmail.com
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