Waiarohia Stream Footbridge – Kotuitui Whitinga

SSP Engineering was proud to play a key role in the Waiarohia Stream Footbridge project — officially named Kotuitui Whitinga — providing complete structural and non-structural steel fabrication and installation for this iconic Whangārei public infrastructure.

Spanning the Waiarohia Stream as part of the Hātea Loop walkway, the footbridge enhances pedestrian and cycle connectivity between Port Road, the Town Basin, and Riverside Drive, forming a vital link in Whangārei’s urban waterfront experience.

SSP Engineering’s scope included the fabrication and installation of bespoke structural steel components with a total value of approximately $0.9 million, representing nearly half of the overall project cost. Every structural element was uniquely manufactured to exacting tolerances, with meticulous planning and execution ensuring seamless onsite assembly.

A standout element of the project was the central rotating span (opening carousal), designed to swing clear for marine traffic. Constructed from lightweight aluminium and weighing around 900 kg, this 10-metre unit was precision-fabricated off-site and delivered with specialist handling and traffic coordination to support efficient installation.

SSP Engineering also delivered all architectural stainless-steel work, including approximately 220 lineal metres of handrails, which provide both structural support and a refined visual finish to the bridge.

The Kotuitui Whitinga Footbridge stands as a celebrated piece of community infrastructure, blending functional design and craftsmanship to support active transport and civic engagement in Whangārei.