History & Culture

Shaky Bridge, Manuherikia River

Do You Dare to Walk Over Shaky Bridge?

Wagons and horses once used this suspension bridge; today it’s strictly for pedestrians. Before it was built, the only way across the Manuherikia River was by punt - a risky operation when the river was high. The bridge was opened in 1879 at a cost of £974 ($1,949) and was later sold for £1 ($2.00) to two settlers living across the river. The bridge fell into a state of neglect and was eventually repaired by a specially formed committee at a cost of $1,800. It was at this time the bridge was narrowed to foot traffic only.