The Taieri River, New Zealand’s fourth longest, flows from the Lammerlaw Range, curving around the Rock and Pillars, and winds through a steep-sided gorge to Outram. From there, it crosses the Taieri Plains to Henley, where it meets the Waipori River. The river then continues for 8km through a bush-lined lower gorge before reaching the sea near Moturata/Taieri Island.
The original single-lane wooden bridge, built in 1912, served the growing traffic demands for 65 years before it required replacement due to increased pressure from farming, forestry, and commercial fishing. By August 1980, a new concrete two-lane bridge, administered by the Clutha District Council, was completed, running parallel to the old bridge, which was dismantled six months later. The opening day was marked by a large celebration with locals and holidaymakers alike. Today, the southern end of the bridge features a boat launching ramp, with parking areas for cars and trailers. Boaters are advised to follow safety signs and check tide conditions before crossing the ever-changing bar to the open sea.
