29/05/2026
Clive Bridge story continues - Throwback to where it all began ➡️
Following Steve’s recent visit to Clive Bridge, we dug into the archives and found the original project photos and footage from over 11 years ago.
At the time, the existing bridge footpath was only 2 meters wide, below the 3 meter standard needed to safely accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists.
But there was another major challenge:
The bridge structure was already at its maximum weight capacity.
A traditional 2 metre concrete walkway already weighed around 50 tonnes. Expanding the pathway to the required 3 metres using concrete would have increased the load to approximately 75 tonnes far beyond what was practical for the structure.
Traditional options like timber were also considered, but ongoing maintenance requirements and long-term durability concerns made them less suitable for the environment.
The solution?
Enduroplank by Replas.
Using Replas, the entire 3 metre shared pathway was completed at only 17 tonnes total, dramatically reducing structural load while also delivering:
✔ Lower maintenance
✔ High durability
✔ Long-term performance in harsh coastal conditions
Even better, the project became a major sustainability success story with the equivalent of approximately 4.2 million pieces of soft plastic diverted from landfill and transformed into durable lightweight pavers ♻️
Spanning 150 metres across the river between Napier and Hastings, Clive Bridge is now recognised as one of New Zealand’s most environmentally friendly bridge infrastructure projects.
More than a decade later, the walkway is still performing exactly as intended 👏
A great example of smart infrastructure design delivering lasting value for councils and communities.
Check out the project infomration here : https://youtu.be/9abID77Q-1U
Installed by Downer Construction for Hastings District Council - Te Kaunihera ā-Rohe o Heretaunga.
