A new temporary Bailey bridge across the Manuherekia River opened to the public on Thursday (December 18), providing a vital transport link while the refurbishment of the Little Valley Road bridge faces delays.

The bridge, located at the Linger and Die reserve, connects Rivers Street and Graveyard Gully Road, offering a crossing for trucks that cannot currently use the Little Valley Road bridge due to weight restrictions.

While the temporary crossing is now operational, Central Otago District Council confirmed the main refurbishment of the Little Valley Road bridge has been pushed back.

A council spokesperson said the delay was caused by external supply chain factors.

"Our contractor is currently experiencing delays in the supply of hardwood timber due to geo-political issues affecting the supply chain," the spokesperson said.

"As a result, the project is now expected to commence in early March 2026."

Despite the late start, the council said the contractor is working “to optimise the construction programme”, with the project still targeted for completion by mid-2026.

Until construction begins in March, the Little Valley Road bridge will remain open to suitable heavy and light vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. 

Once work commences, a temporary accessway will be installed on the bridge for pedestrians and cyclists, and the Shaky Bridge footbridge will remain an option.

The temporary bridge across the Manuherekia River is not for pedestrians, CODC says. Image: Facebook/CODC

However, the council said the new Bailey bridge is strictly for vehicles only.

"The Bailey bridge is suitable for vehicles, including Class 1 heavy vehicles, but has no facility for pedestrian access," the spokesperson said.

Motorists in the area are advised to drive with caution as give way priorities have changed at the intersections of Graveyard Gully Road and Walton and Thompson Streets, and speed restrictions are in place.

Parking on Walton and Thompson streets adjacent to the Linger and Die Reserve will also be limited for safety reasons until the project is completed.