Exploring Waiau Ferry Bridge
Located about 9 km south of Hanmer Springs in North Canterbury, the historic Waiau Ferry Bridge spans the north end of the Waiau River gorge. You can walk onto the bridge, with amazing views of the river and gorge. It is also a popular location for bungy jumping, if you are so inclined.
Facilities and Activities
Immediately before reaching the bridge, you'll find a café and a parking area, perfect for a quick stop. In addition to bungy jumping, the stop is a hub for various river activities. You can enjoy jet boating, rafting, and more along the river. Additionally, a freedom campsite is available further along the river for those looking to extend their stay.
If you continue driving over the bridge towards Hanmer Springs, there's another parking spot with excellent views up the gorge to the bridge and down the river to the west.
History of the Waiau Ferry Bridge
The bridge was built in 1887 and spans the entrance to the Waiau Gorge near the junction of the Hanmer and Waiau Rivers. It replaced an earlier bridge destroyed by a gale in 1874. Designed by John Blackett and constructed by Andersons Ltd, the bridge is supported by two inverted triangular frames.
This iron structure was praised for its strength, economy, and elegance, and has obviously stood the test of time! The bridge stretches 77.7 metres long and is 30 metres above the river. The bridge played a crucial role in early New Zealand tourism, enabling safer access to Hanmer’s hot springs, while also supporting the stock route between Canterbury and Marlborough.
How to Get There
Waiau Ferry Bridge is a short drive towards Hanmer Springs on State Highway 7A from State Highway 7. From Christchurch, the drive is 125 km and takes about 95 minutes.
Hanmer is a picturesque town, based around its commercial hot pools and tourism. Other things to do around Hanmer Springs include Hanmer Forest tracks and the Dog Stream Waterfall Track.
