Teething problems for new bridge1 min read

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The newly-opened bridge connecting Onehunga with Māngere Bridge, Ngā Hau Māngere, has not come without its teething problems, with reports of noise, alcohol, littering and graffiti and dog excrement left on the bridge.

Māngere Bridge Village manager, Kate Adams, says the lights and cameras are back working on the causeway after being unintentionally damaged and the brightness has been increased in the lights to enhance the safety of the bridge, though there are still issues going on there.

She hopes that the bridge will continue to be used as it’s intended, as a walking and cycling space that’s safe for people rather than to congregate at night and flout the liquor ban. As well as the liquor ban, bollards close access to parts of the bridge after 10pm.

Kate encourages people that rather than taking action themselves, to report illegal activity to the police, including people drinking or damaging the bridge, and for dog owners to pick up after their pets, to keep the bridge clean.

“We want to come up with solutions to make it safe for people.”

A recent meeting was held between the Māngere Bridge Business Association, Māngere Bridge Residents and Ratepayers Association chairperson and representatives from the Mangere-Otahuhu Local Board, police, and community patrol, to decide on some solutions, which included several weeks of more police presence, raising awareness with local residents and looking into better signage and lights.