Christmas Finish Hopeful For Trail Bridge

Volunteers ready  a barge-mounted pile driver for the first stage of construction of the Tangitarori Canal bridge

Checking the plan before starting work on pile driving

The Pauanui to Tairua Trail bridge over the Tangitarori Canal is under construction and should be finished by Christmas.

Trail Chairman Gary Fowler says the bridge is a major part of the project that will open up the Trail's eastern end.

The Thames Coromandel District Council gave consents for the bridge last week, Mr Fowler said.

"Work can begin immediately using a barge which was towed to the site at high tide.

"We are hopeful of finishing the structure by Christmas," Mr Fowler said.

'This will enable the huge number pif visitors to the  district at that time to walk a section of the track and get an idea of the enormity of the project."

Mr Fowler paid tribute to the many volunteers who have helped the project reach its current stage.

"Without their help we would be struggling. Instead, we are m akin astonishing progress.

"The lead up too the bridge from Tangitarori Lane is also coming together. This will avoid an eroded area of the old boardwalk.

"We are still looking for money to extend the Trail  from the bridge around Pa Point but we are indebted to corporates, charities and local people who have already contributed."

The Duck Creek and of the Trail is complete to Picnic Point and has already been praised by council officials and those who have seen this section.

Mr Fowler and the Trail Committee were honoured at the recent Pauanui Sports and Recreation Club's annual Volunteer Awards ceremony.