New Wakefield Street Bridge gets green light

Published on 19 April 2026

Wakefield Street Bridge in Whanganui East will be replaced, now funding has been confirmed by NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi.

Mayor Andrew Tripe says this is the fantastic news that Whanganui East residents have been waiting for.

“Wakefield Street Bridge is an important link for Whanganui East and surrounding rural communities. I’m delighted we’ve managed to secure 62 percent of the funding from central government – this means the council can now turn its attention to getting it built and restoring this connection. It has taken longer than expected but we are there.”

Mayor Andrew says he wants to acknowledge the community input to support the funding.

“People spoke up, stayed involved, and made it clear just how important this bridge is. That support has played a big part in getting us to this point and it’s a great result for everyone who’s been pushing for a long-term fix,” Mayor Andrew says.

Whanganui MP Carl Bates says the funding is welcome news.

“I know how frustrating the closure has been for local residents and businesses, including the Whanganui East Club, so it’s good to see things moving forward toward a safe, modern replacement.

“Along with the community, I’ve advocated strongly for this with both NZTA and the Minister of Transport. It is fantastic to see that hard work result in a positive outcome today.”

Wakefield Street Bridge, built in the 1950s, was closed to vehicles in early 2025 after structural issues were identified. It remains open to pedestrians and cyclists.

Construction is expected to start late this year and finish by the end of June 2027.

The project cost is estimated at $2.7M, with 62 percent funded by NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi and the rest funded from the council’s transport budget.