Papakura Timber Bridge

Inspired by nature

We have the privilege of working in partnership with Waka Kotahi’s Tāmaki southern kaitiaki forum in developing this innovative design.  

Through a series of workshops and studies, we arrived at a design inspired by the natural structures found in our native fauna. Fluid in form and natural in materiality, the bridge represents a new sustainable and organic design direction for our city’s infrastructure. 

Ecologically sensitive design 

The bridge is grounded in existing ecologically sensitive wetlands, so preservation of the existing vegetation was a key design driver. The abutments are comprised of terraced retaining walls, with native planting embedded in the horizontal levels. The terraces are distinct from the main structure, blending the bridge into the natural landscape.

Low carbon, optimal value 

The structure has been designed as a combination of Glulam, cross laminated timber and concrete. Concrete piers supporting the truss structure are sculpted into an efficient but unique design informed by the cultural narrative provided by mana whenua. This design is slender, reducing its visual impact and contact with the ground. The crosshead geometry is designed to mimic the bridge beam, serving a dual structural purpose while continuing the underlying pattern of the bridge elements.