Big Blow-Down

After many years' use the old Kaikoura bridge on the Tiniroto Road was recently demolished. Situated over a deep ravine, the bridge, which was destroyed because of its generally poor condition, was eventually replaced With a Bailey bridge. Gelignite was placed in key locations on the bridge which, when detonated, came apart as these positions then plunged down into the ravine.

The start of the Bailey bridge construction was delayed by about four hours however when swarms of bees made their appearance felt. They had obviously had nests in the timbers of the bridge and did not take kindly to their shattering experience.