DOC reveals first pictures of massive new Aoraki/Mount Cook swing bridge
The Department of Conservation (DOC) has released the first images of what will become New Zealand’s longest swing bridge (189 metres), currently under construction in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. The bridge will become a major attraction for the area.
Spanning 189 metres across the Hooker River, the new bridge is being built on the upper section of the popular Hooker Valley Track. Once complete, it will replace the existing swing bridge, which was closed in April after riverbank erosion compromised the stability of its supports.
Contractors working on the project have nicknamed the structure “the beast”, a reflection of both its sheer size and the extreme conditions faced during construction. Work began in August, but progress has been repeatedly challenged by unseasonal weather in the high alpine environment.
Despite the challenges, the project has reached an important milestone. Drilling for the main bridge support masts has been completed, with the team now working through wind-anchor drilling and concrete foundation pours. Assembly of the bridge cables is expected to begin early next year.
In the meantime, public access on the Hooker Valley Track remains partially restricted. The track is currently open to a viewing platform overlooking Mueller Lake, beyond the first suspension bridge, while the upper section remains closed due to construction activity.