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Most of those present at the opening ceremony had taken a keen interest in the construction of the bridge, beset as it was over the years by floods and troubles associated with earth slumping. The pictures on these two pages, taken at various stages, show some of the stages of the work.

Aerial view taken in December, 1955, shows work in progress at Gisborne end of bridge. Old Patutahi road, still being used, was subsequently closed to allow river cut (right) to be opened up.

"Mac" McCorkindale, bridge foreman, and W. Parker, engineer for the Rope Construction Company, taking their first look at the site in August, 1954.

Flood in April, 1955, carried much of the company's timber and gear out to sea. Caisson shown is on Patutahi side of river.

On this notable day in July, 1956, the river, in high flood, first flowed in the new cut, is seen here crossing the old Manutuke highway, now torn up.

One of the caissons skewed by earth slumping in the wet 1955 winter. Correction of this trouble was a major reason why completion of bridge was delayed so long.

Another notable day: lifting the first girders into position, February, 1956.

In the final stages: a view from the eastern end of the bridge, showing the gradual arch which is a feature of the structure.

New A.A. sign directs motorists from Gisborne.

Workmen engaged in applying the finishing touches returning to the bridge by ladder.

From water-level: a view showing the massive construction of the bridge..

Three views taken immediately after the opening ceremony, as traffic streamed over the new bridge.

In his speech at the opening ceremony, the Minister congratulated the District Commissioner of Works (Mr D. O. Haskell) and his staff on the design and overseeing of the bridge.

From the western bank looking upstream.

From the western end.

Flags fly as cars approach eastern end of bridge.

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The Gisborne Photo News

No 35 : May 30, 1957

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